Do you get confused about the screenings and prevention steps you should take to maintain good health? If so, you’re not alone.
Guidelines continue to change and can be confusing, but we can help steer you in the right direction.
Generally, the American Cancer Society recommends the following screenings. However, your primary care provider (PCP) may have a different recommendation for you, based on your individual situation or family history. Talk to your PCP or one of the practitioners at the ParTNers Center to find a screening schedule that’s right for you.
Breast health
Breast self-exams should be done monthly (typically 3-5 days after a woman’s monthly cycle starts).
All ages should get a breast exam by their PCP or OB/GYN, along with their annual physical/pelvic exam.
Ages 40-44 can start annual mammograms.
Ages 45-54 should get an annual mammogram.
Ages 55+ may get a mammogram every 2 years (or continue yearly exams).
Cervical health
Starting at age 21, your provider may recommend a cervical Pap test (also called a Pap smear). If that test is normal, your provider may advise waiting 3 years for your next test.
At age 30, your provider may want you to have a human papilloma virus (HPV) test at the same time you have your Pap test.
Ages 21-65 should continue getting Pap tests as often as recommended by your provider (even if not sexually active and/or not having children).
If your Pap test is abnormal, your provider may repeat testing or recommend additional testing. There are procedures that can detect and remove abnormal cells to reduce your risk of cervical cancer.
Regardless of age, you should have an annual physical/pelvic exam, even if you do not need a Pap test at that time.
Ovarian health
There are no specific tests or screenings for ovarian health. However, ages 21+ should have an annual physical/pelvic exam, even if you do not need a Pap test at that time.
Testicular health
There are no specific tests or screenings for testicular health. However, self-exams should be done monthly. Discuss any concerns you may have with your provider.
Prostate health
Starting at age 40, your provider may recommend an annual prostate/rectal exam.
Your provider may also suggest a PSA (prostate specific antigen) screening in some cases. But the PSA is no longer recommended as a routine annual test.
Other health concerns
At the ParTNers Center, we offer urine tests, blood tests and other screenings for suspected infections, including HPV. We now offer HPV vaccination for eligible patients (generally men and women ages 26 and under).
Significant health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or heart or artery disease may result in erectile dysfunction. Don't hesitate to discuss this important issue with your provider.
If you have questions or need a general screening, give the ParTNers Center a call.
The best course of action with any health screening is to discuss your individual situation and health history with your PCP or the ParTNers Center. We can help determine an appropriate screening schedule for you.
Everything we do at the ParTNers Center is confidential!
We have expanded!
The ParTNers Center has recently enhanced its services to provide a full range of primary care. We can even serve as your PCP.
As a reminder, the ParTNers Center offers care and assistance with all these issues:
Stress/anxiety/depression screening and treatment
Heart health
Behavioral health referrals for women’s and men’s health issues
Routine vaccinations, such as TDaP and flu shots
Other lab work as needed (thyroid, anemia, etc.)
Well-woman exam (an annual exam is recommended)
Referrals for mammograms
Substance/tobacco use
Assessment and treatment for urinary tract, vaginal and other infections
Nutrition/eating disorders
Body image/weight concerns
Preconception and prenatal nutrition/vitamin recommendations
Pregnancy tests and referrals to an OB/GYN
Perimenopause and menopause
Other issues, including, skin care, menstruation, sleep, exercise and more!
Make an appointment at the ParTNers Center today by calling 615-741-1709.