6 TexasHealthMansfield.org Many health issues can develop silently, often without noticeable symptoms until they become serious. That’s why routine health screenings are crucial for early detection and prevention. Take high blood pressure, for example. “When we find it and start treating it early, we can prevent heart attacks, strokes and, many times, death,” says family medicine provider Nkechi Onyegasi, DNP, FNP-C. “It’s the same with some cancers. When we find them early, it’s easier to treat them less aggressively.” With breast cancer, for instance, early detection may mean that just the tumor needs to be removed, rather than the whole breast. Start with a checkup Nkechi encourages her patients to get annual wellness exams so that she can tailor a screening schedule based on their individual and family medical histories. Regular screenings are a proactive approach to protecting your health. “These recommendations are based on evidence,” Nkechi notes. “Studies have shown that screening is beneficial at these stages of life.” Essential screenings for every age When to start screening Here are some key screenings to discuss with your healthcare provider. If your risk is higher than average, you may need to begin screenings earlier. In your 20s ● Blood pressure. Regular checks are essential. ● Cholesterol. Have your levels tested regularly, as excess cholesterol can clog arteries. ● Cervical cancer. Starting at age 21, women should get a Pap test regularly. The test can prevent cervical cancer by finding precancerous changes that doctors can treat. In your 40s ● Breast cancer. Mammograms can find tiny lumps before you feel them. Have them yearly, starting at age 40. ● Colorectal cancer. Start at age 45. During a colonoscopy, doctors can find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. Another colorectal cancer screening option: stool tests that you can take at home and mail to a lab. ● Prostate cancer. Consider having a prostate-specific antigen blood test at age 45 if you’re an African American man or prostate cancer runs in your family. In your 50s ● Prostate cancer. Men at average risk should begin screening at age 50. In your 60s ● Osteoporosis. Women 65 and older need a bone density test to screen for this bone-thinning disease.
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