Preventative care can help improve your overall health status and help you to avoid various health issues. To learn more, click the tabs for information on each topics below:
Breast Cancer Screening
A mammogram is an imaging study to evaluate breast tissue and is used for breast cancer screening. Routine breast cancer screening is recommended for women ages 40-75. It is recommended you receive a routine mammogram every 1-2 years. Your individual recommendations may be different based on your risk factors and health. Visit with your provider regarding what schedule is best for you.
Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer screening is recommended for all adults beginning at age 50 and continuing until age 75. Some individuals will continue to receive colon cancer screening after the age of 75 based on individual risk factors. There are several types of colon cancer screening:
- Stool test for blood: a stool test performed at home checking for blood in the stool
- Cologuard stool test: a special stool test, performed at home, to detect for DNA markers and blood in the stool
- Colonoscopy: The colonoscopy is the best test for colon cancer screening. This procedure is done to look for abnormalities inside the colon and rectum. A colonscope (a thin, tube like instrument with a light and camera on the end) is inserted through the rectum and into the colon. During this procedure samples (biopsies) are taken of any polyps or abnormalities.
Talk with your health care provider regarding which method of colon cancer screening is best for you.
Immunizations
Family Practice provides immunizations for all ages, infants to adults.
Additional immunization information can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/index.html
Pap Smear and Pelvic Exam
Pap smears are a screening test for cervical cancer and abnormalities. A pelvic exam is part of this visit and checks for other possible abnormalities and health problems, this includes checking the uterus and ovaries. Routine pap smears begin at the age of 21, the frequency of pap smears and pelvic exams is based on your age and risk factors. Visit with your health care provider regarding the recommended schedule and testing for you.
Prostate Cancer Screening
The current recommendations for prostate cancer screening are that you discuss your symptoms and risk factors with your provider to determine what evaluation is best for you. Prostate cancer screening may involve a rectal exam and a PSA (blood test checking the prostate).
Additional Screening Tests
To learn more about preventive care screening tests, click here.