These infections include gonorrhea, syphilis, Chlamydia, and others (see HIV below). If you are sexually active, consider being routinely screened for these tests, especially if you had any unprotected sexual encounters.
These screenings generally involved simple blood tests and can be conducted confidentially. Remember, always use safer sex practices.
HIV
HIV is still a present and dangerous epidemic. Fortunately, new medications have greatly improved both the quality and quantity of life for people with HIV.
You should have an HIV test with your other routine screening tests. HIV testing should be repeated annually if you have had any experiences that put you at increased risk, such as:
- unprotected sex with multiple partners
- injection drug use (past or present)
- the exchange of sex for money (you or your partner)
- sex with a partner who is HIV-infected, bisexual or who used injection drugs
- current treatment for a sexually transmitted disease
- blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985
HIV screening can be done with a simple blood test. Results are confidential, and many resources exist for people living with HIV, including new medications and therapies.
Breast Cancer
Starting at age 40, have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years. If there is a history of breast cancer in your family, talk to your doctor about starting mammograms earlier. All women can also do periodic breast self-exams to check for lumps. Catching breast cancer early is the key to effective treatment.
Cervical Cancer
Women between the ages of 21 and 65 should have a Pap smear every 1 to 3 years if they have ever been sexually active.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a thinning of the bones that can occur with aging. Starting at age 65, women should have a bone density test to check for osteoporosis. Women between ages 60 and 64 should talk to their doctor about a bone density test if they weigh less than 154 pounds.
Use the table below as a guide to help you keep track of your health screenings, test results and when you will need to schedule your next appointment.
Source(s): Women: Stay Healthy at Any Age�Your Checklist for Health. AHRQ Publication No. 07-IP005-A, February 2007. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville, MD. http://www.ahrq.gov/ppip/healthywom.htm.
Health Screening Checklist for Women
| Test | Last Test (mo/yr) | Results | Next Test Due (mo/yr) | Questions for the Doctor |
| Weight (BMI) | ||||
| Cholesterol Total: | ||||
| HDL (good): | ||||
| LDL (bad): | ||||
| Blood pressure | ||||
| Mammogram | ||||
| Pap smear | ||||
| Colorectal cancer | ||||
| Diabetes | ||||
| Skin Self-Check | ||||
| Sexually transmitted infections | ||||
| HIV Infection | ||||
| Bone density |
