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Ages & Stages Prevention

Heart Women Men
Blood Pressure Every one to two years. Your doctor may recommend checking more often if you're at increased risk.
Cholesterol Levels Every five years after 18 At least every five years, starting at 35. Begin at age 20 and have it checked more often if you have a risk for heart disease.
Diabetes/Blood Sugar Levels Varies dependings on family history and risk factors for diabetes. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, a family history, or being overweight increase risk and screenings should be a priority.
Cancer Women Men
Colorectal Cancer Starting at age 50, consult your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. This screening may be performed earlier if you have inflammatory bowel disease or a first-degree relative with colon cancer.
Breast Exam Annual exam by a physician, especially after age 40. Less frequent exams may suffice for younger women. Some recommend montly self examinations as well. N/A
Mammogram Every one to two years after age 40; check with your doctor for your personal risk needs. N/A
Pelvic Exam/Pap Smear Every one to three years after age 18, or when sexually active. N/A
Prostate Exam N/A Each year, starting at age 50. Men at increased risk for prostate cancer may need to begin screening earlier and have it done more frequently. Factors that increase risk include black race and family history.
Skin Exam Annual mole checks, as well as a total body skin exam by a physician every three years between the ages 20-39, or yearly after 40. Also check yourself periodically for suspicious growths or changes.
Testicular Exam N/A Beginning in teens, learn to do a monthly self-exam. See your provider regularly for a testicular exam and call promptly if you find a lump. This cancer most commonly occurs in men ages 15-40, those with a family history of the disease, or who have a testicle that is out of normal position. Men at risk need more frequent screenings.
Dental & Vision
Dental Exam At least twice a year, have a dentist examine your teeth, gums, and mouth.
Vision Exam Every two years; yearly if you have diabetes or a family hostory of eye disease. After age 40, have eyes checked periodically, especially if carrying increased risk for eye disease. After age 65, eye exams are especially important.
Miscellaneous
HIV If you had a blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985, have injected illegal drugs, or had multiple sex partners (homosexual or heterosexual), you should have an HIV test.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases If you have had multiple sexual partners, any sexually transmitted disease in the past, or are pregnant, it is recommended that you seek an STD screening/test.

Your Health
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