From the Guidelines
For a 46-year-old female, recommended screening labs include a comprehensive metabolic panel, complete blood count, lipid panel, thyroid stimulating hormone, hemoglobin A1C, and urinalysis, which should be performed annually.
Screening Recommendations
- A screening mammogram should begin at age 45 and continue annually, as recommended by the American Cancer Society 1.
- Cervical cancer screening with Pap smear and HPV testing should be done every 5 years between ages 30-65, as stated in the guidelines 1.
- Colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 45 with options including colonoscopy every 10 years or stool-based testing annually, according to the American Cancer Society guidelines 1.
- Bone density screening is not yet indicated but should begin at age 65 for women without risk factors.
- Hepatitis C screening is recommended once for all adults born between 1945-1965.
Additional Screenings
- Blood pressure and BMI should also be checked at each visit to screen for hypertension and obesity.
- Depending on individual risk factors such as family history or symptoms, additional testing may be warranted.
Importance of Screenings
These screenings help detect common conditions like diabetes, hyperlipidemia, thyroid disorders, and various cancers at early, more treatable stages. It is essential to follow the recommended screening guidelines to ensure early detection and treatment of potential health issues, ultimately improving morbidity, mortality, and quality of life 1.