Stay Ahead with Preventive Screenings: A Woman’s Guide to Lifelong Health
By Sameera Guttha, MD, MPH
PGY-2, Family Medicine
Preventive health involves being proactive and taking steps to improve your health—it’s about staying ahead. Through proper screenings, lifestyle choices, and proactive care, women can safeguard their well-being, identify concerns early, and lead fuller, healthier lives.
Why Preventive Screenings Matter
- Early detection saves lives: Conditions like breast cancer, cervical cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis can often be managed successfully when detected early.
- Protect your future: Screenings help you maintain long-term health.
- Tailored to every life stage: Your health needs change with age; preventive care keeps you on track at every milestone in life.
Screening Schedule
| Screening | When | Why |
| Pap Smear & HPV Test | Ages 21–65 (every 3–5 years, depending on results and risk factors) | Detects cervical cancer early when treatment is most effective. |
| Mammogram | Starting at age 40–50 (every 1–2 years; earlier if high risk) | Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves survival rates. |
| Blood Pressure & Cholesterol Checks | Annually, starting in early adulthood | Heart disease is the #1 killer of women—prevention starts with knowing your numbers. |
| Bone Density Test | Age 65+, or earlier if post-menopausal with risk factors | Detects osteoporosis before fractures occur. |
| Colorectal Cancer Screening | Starting at age 45–50 (colonoscopy or stool-based tests) | Prevents colon cancer by finding polyps early. |
| Diabetes & Thyroid Screenings | Periodic checks, especially after age 40 or with a family history | Early management prevents long-term complications. |
Essential Foundations for Preventive Health
- Mental health check-ins: Managing stress, anxiety, and depression is just as important as physical health.
- Nutrition & fitness guidance: Balanced lifestyle choices help keep screenings clear.
- Vaccinations: From HPV to flu shots, vaccines protect against preventable illnesses.
Take Strides to Prioritize Your Health Today!
To learn more about Suburban’s and Roxborough Memorial Hospital’s Medical Residency Program, visit https://suburbanbhc.org/our-services/residency-programs/ or https://roxboroughmemorial.com/our-services/residency-program/