Recommended Screening Tests
Detailed examinations as well as several screening tests are recommended for women between 40 and 60 years of age.
Though recommendations for different tests vary in different countries and ethnic groups, some screening tests that women between 40 and 60 years of age should undergo are listed below:
- Routine Examination by a Doctor
A routine examination should be done preferably yearly. It should also include a breast and pelvic examination and a skin check for skin cancers. Women should be advised to do monthly self – breast examination. They should also be advised about healthy lifestyle changes like avoiding smoking and alcohol and controlling weight.
- Dental Examination
Women should undergo annual dental examinations.
- Eye Testing
- Eye examination should be carried out every 2 years above the age of 40 years.
- Testing for glaucoma should be done every 2 years over the age of 45.
- Blood Pressure
Blood pressure should be checked once every 2 years and more often if it is above normal level.
- Lipid profile
A lipid profile to check cholesterol levels should be carried out once every 5 years beyond the age of 44 years.
- Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer screening is advised in women over 50 years of age with a stool test every year and a flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years or a colonoscopy every 10 years.
- Mammogram
Mammogram to check for breast cancer should be carried out every one to two years above the age of 40 years
- Pap Smear
Pap smears are recommended after the age of 21 whenever the woman becomes sexually active. It is recommended every 2 to 3 years above the age of 40 years
- DEXA Scan
A DEXA scan to check for bone density should be carried out in women at a high risk for osteoporosis
- Blood sugar Testing
A fasting and postprandial blood sugar should be tested once in 3 years to check for diabetes
- HIV Testing
Women with multiple sexual partners or at high risk for developing HIV may need to undergo screening for the disease.
