What screening tests should women get to check for heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, and other conditions?
Screening tests can have a significant impact on health. For heart disease, it is recommended to regularly check cholesterol and blood pressure. Cholesterol tests are done through blood tests to detect levels of blood fats such as LDL 'bad' cholesterol, HDL 'good' cholesterol, and triglycerides. If the values are abnormal, dietary changes or medications can help. Additionally, it is advised to have an A1c test annually to check blood sugar levels to prevent diabetes. For breast cancer, regular mammograms are recommended, typically starting at age 45 annually and every two years after 55. Cervical cancer screening can be done through a Pap test, recommended every three years for women aged 21 to 65. If combined with an HPV test, it can be done every five years. For colorectal cancer, it is advised to have a colonoscopy every ten years starting at age 50. Osteoporosis screening is recommended to have a bone density test at age 65.