Recommended Medical Tests by Age
Maintaining your good health as you age goes beyond routinely checking your blood pressure and lab values. It also means getting recommended screening exams–especially once you reach age 40.
Most women know they should start getting an annual mammogram for breast cancer screening after their 40th birthday, but you may be less aware of these other non-invasive health screenings that experts recommend for both women and men.
- Starting at Age 40: Women’s Breast Health
Once you reach age 40, talk to your doctor about the benefits of getting a mammogram every year. The American College of Radiology, the Society of Breast Imaging and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend that all women receive annual mammograms beginning at age 40. Your doctor can personalize this recommendation for you, based on your personal and family medical history.
- Starting at Age 50: Bone Health
Good bone strength helps prevent falls in older age. So, both men and women should speak with their doctor about receiving bone health screenings beginning as early as age 50. Ask your doctor about getting a DEXA scan if you fall into one of these groups:
- Women who broke a bone after age 50
- All women age 65 and older
- All men age 70 and older
- Starting at Age 55: Lung Health
Some men and women should talk to their doctor about getting a lung CT once they reach age 55. You should ask about having an annual CT scan for lung cancer if:
- You currently smoke or you quit smoking within the past 15 years and
- You have a 30 pack-year history of smoking. (See graphic below)
Maintaining your health is the key to enjoying a vibrant, active lifestyle as you move into middle age and beyond. Talk with your doctor about the routine health screenings recommended for your age. You can reduce your risk of getting some of the common diseases of aging and focus on going wherever life’s adventure takes you.
Talk to your doctor, then call Premier Diagnostic Imaging to schedule one of these exams.
Call 931-528-1800 to speak to one of our receptionists.
Read More:
Additional recommended screenings for women and men at average risk for the diseases of aging.
Sources:
https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/pack-year
Author: Elizabeth Hanes, BSN RN
Medically reviewed by Dr. Seth Means
