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Basic Health Screening for Adults By Lyn Kelley at White-Wilson Medical Center The American Medical Association recommends every adult see his/her general physician (a family practitioner, internist or OB/GYN) at least once per year for a check-up. A standard check-up includes a check of your blood pressure and pulse, height, weight, and a review of the medicines you are taking (including prescription, over-the-counter and herbal remedies). In addition to these standard checks, your physician may ask you to have one or more additional screenings based on your sex, age, weight, family history, symptoms, if you are a smoker, and any medical problems you currently have (such as diabetes or high blood pressure). Some of the more standard preventative screenings include: Blood Lipid Profile – this is a blood test that shows an individual’s cholesterol levels. This screening is recommended every two to five years for adults age 35 and over (age 20 if a smoker, diabetic or family history of heart disease). PSA Screen – this is a blood test for men aged 40 and above to indicate prostate cancer. This screening is recommended annually for men age 40 and above. Thyroid Profile – this blood test indicates the presence of or potential for abnormal thyroid function. It is recommended for men or women with symptoms of insomnia or extreme fatigue, sudden weight gain or loss, sensitivity to cold or heat, extremely dry hair and skin, or an enlarged thyroid gland. Pap Smear – this test looks at uterine tissue to indicate the presence of cancerous or pre-cancerous cells in a woman’s reproductive organs. It is recommended for all women annually from the time a female becomes sexually active through adulthood. Glucose – this blood test indicates the presence of or potential for diabetes. It is recommended for men and women age 35 and above with high blood pressure, high cholesterol or any age with symptoms of diabetes. Cardiac Calcium Scoring - this CT scan shows the build-up of plaque (calcium) within the arteries of the heart – and thus, the individual’s risk of heart disease. It is recommended for men and women aged 45 and above, individuals with a family history of heart disease, or adults with a high-fat diet and inactive lifestyle. Mammogram – this screening is used to identify abnormalities in breast tissue that could be cancerous. It is recommended for women with a baseline at age 35 then annually at age 40. DexaScan – this screening identifies risk for and early stages of osteoporosis when treatment can be effective. It is recommended for women of any age with a family history of osteoporosis, who are lactose intolerant or who have small bones. |
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