What Tests Do You Need, and When?
By: Carole Fleck; Source: AARP Bulletin Date Posted: 2006-12-14 13:31:00-05:00
If you have a family history of a particular disease, an underlying health condition or other risk factors, consult your doctor about test frequency or about other tests you may need.
For everyone 50-plus
Eye exam: Every 2-4 years but every 1-2 years for 65 and older
Hearing test: Every 10 years
Skin exam: Every year
Dental exam: 1-2 times a year
Diabetes screen: Every 3 years but every 1-2 years for 65 and older
Cholesterol check: Every 5 years
Blood pressure check: Every 2 years at least
Colorectal cancer screening: Every 5-10 years; fecal occult blood test every year; sigmoidoscopy every 5 years; colonoscopy every 10 years
For women only
Mammogram: Every 1-2 years
Pelvic exam: Every 1-3 years (less frequently for those 65 and older if negative on previous screens)
Pap test: Every 1-3 years
Bone mineral density: At least once by age 65. (Women who are 65 or older should be tested at least once for osteoporosis.)
For men only
Prostate cancer check: Guidelines vary, discuss with your doctor.
Health Screenings: How to Find Free or Low-Cost Services (December 2006)
Checkups and Prevention (AARP.org)
Back to Main Article: How's Your Health?...Check It Out
Share
preview