Question

What screening tests should women 60s and up get?

Answer 1

• Get a bone density screening test when you turn 65, or sooner if you're at high risk for the bone-weakening conditions osteopenia and osteoporosis.
• Many experts suggest you get a mammogram every 1 to 2 years to check for breast cancer when you're 50 to 74. Check with your doctor about what you should do if you're older than 74.
• You may be due for another colonoscopy to check for colon cancer. You should get the test every 10 years, or sooner if your doctor finds polyps.
• To check for cervical cancer, ask your doctor if you need regular pelvic exams with Pap and HPV tests, and how often.
• Get a flu shot every year. Don't forget about other key vaccines, like the pneumonia shot, which you should get at 65.
• Get a shingles vaccine even if you've had the painful condition before. It may prevent another bout, or if you do get shingles, make it milder.