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Find out more about the full spectrum of women’s services for women at every age and every stage of life available at UHS.
If you are like most moms, you often put yourself at the bottom of your to-do list. Between taking care of your children, your job, your home and possibly aging parents, you don’t make time to take care of yourself. But if you are not healthy, how can you continue to help everyone else? Make your preventive health a priority. Pick up the phone today and make appointments for annual checkups with your primary care and women’s health providers. Are you also due* for any of the following screenings?
Mammography
Why: Excluding certain types of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer in women and is a leading cause of cancer death in women of every race and ethnicity. Screening can catch breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.
When: For women at average risk, the American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms and clinical breast exams starting at age 40. Clinical breast exams are also recommended every three years for women in their 20s and 30s.
Colonoscopy
Why: Of cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Colonoscopy not only improves prognosis by catching the cancer early, it can actually prevent cancer by removing polyps before they become malignant.
When: The American Cancer society recommends colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50. Other tests for colorectal cancer are also available; intervals vary.
Pap and HPV screening
Why: In the past 40 years, cervical cancer went from a leading cause of cancer death for women to a rarity, thanks to Pap and HPV screenings.
When: The American Cancer Society recommends screening every three years beginning at age 21. Testing can end at age 65 for women with a history of normal Pap results. HPV tests should also be performed every five years between ages 30 and 65.
Cardiac risk screening
Why: Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The key to preventing heart disease is managing your risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood glucose.
When: The American Heart Association recommends blood pressure checks at least every two years and cholesterol checks every five years beginning at age 20. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference should be checked at regular healthcare visits. Blood glucose should be checked every three years beginning at age 45.
* Screening recommendations are for women at average risk. If you have a family history or other risk factors, work with your provider to determine a customized screening schedule for you.
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Make appointments for any exams or testing you are due for. Visit our website to find a provider or screening location near you.
