Screening Matters: A Preventive Health Guide
When it comes to breast cancer and overall health, early detection and routine care can make a meaningful difference.
Regular screenings are an important part of staying well — not just for breast health, but across your lifespan. This guide highlights recommended screenings for women to help support prevention, early diagnosis, and long-term health.
Care for All Ages
– Annual preventive visit – A yearly checkup focused on prevention. This is also a good time to review and update vaccinations.
– Vision exam – Check with your eye doctor: You may need eye exams yearly.
– Mental health screening – At regular visits, talk openly with your provider about stress, anxiety, or mood changes.
– Diabetes screening – Your provider may recommend testing if you have symptoms or risk factors.
– HIV blood test or saliva test – Everyone should be tested at least once.
Recommended Screenings
by Age 20s and 30s
– Blood pressure: at least once a year
– Cholesterol: at least every 4–6 years
– Pap test and/or HPV test: every 3–5 years, depending on the test
– Breast exam: once a year, starting at age 21
40s and 50s
– Blood pressure: at least once a year
– Cholesterol: at least every 4–6 years
– Pap test and/or HPV test: every 3–5 years, depending on the test
– Colonoscopy: every 10 years, starting at age 45
– Mammogram: once a year, starting at age 40
– Bone density test: after menopause
60s and Beyond
– Blood pressure: at least once a year
– Cholesterol: at least every 4–6 years
– Pap test and/or HPV test: every 3–5 years, depending on the test (you may be able to stop screening after age 65)
– Colonoscopy: every 10 years
– Mammogram: once a year
– Bone density test: after menopause
Pregnancy and Postpartum Screening
– Gestational diabetes: after 24 weeks of pregnancy
– Diabetes: within a year after pregnancy, if you had gestational diabetes
Individual screenings are determined by provider and patient. Check with your insurance to find out what preventive care is covered.
Dr. Elisabeth Nigrini is a board-certified OB/GYN physician at Barton Health. The team at Barton OB/GYN offers services to patients from offices in South Lake Tahoe and Minden. Learn more by calling 530.543.5711 or 775.364.1411.
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