| Recommended Health Screenings And Prevention Steps For Women Ages 18-29 |
This is the best time to develop a preventive disease approach to your future health. Begin by establishing a relationship with a health care professional, who will help you to learn the important facts of your family's medical history, develop healthful eating habits and make a commitment to regular exercise.
You may also see an Ob/Gyn (obstetrician/gynecologist) — a health care professional who specializes in diseases and routine physical care of the reproductive system, including pregnancy. This health care professional can also guide you through prevention of and screenings for sexually transmitted diseases, particularly chlamydia and the human papilloma virus (HPV) which has been linked to cervical cancer,
and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). If you are thinking of becoming pregnant be sure to discuss with your health care professionals any medications or vitamins you are taking.
If you smoke, this is the time to quit. Smoking can lead to lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths in women.
This is also the time to begin regular monthly exams of your breasts and skin for early detection of cancer. Melanoma, a form of skin cancer, is one of the most common cancers in people younger than 30, according to the American Cancer Society.
And finally, don't forget about your personal safety. Wear seat belts and become familiar with resources for detecting and preventing domestic violence.
The following screening and preventive steps should be followed in consultation with your physician:
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Test
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How Often
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Blood Pressure
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Starting at age 18, then at least every 2 years*
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Discuss testing with your health care professional.
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Weight/Body Mass Index (BMI)
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Clinical breast exams (CBE) every year; Report any breast change promptly to your doctor, regular breast self-exam (BSE) is an option for women beginning in their 20s.**
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Cholesterol
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If you smoke, have diabetes, or if heart disease runs in your family, start having your cholesterol checked at age 20.*
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Visit your dentist at least once or twice a year. Brush at least twice a day, but no more than three times because brushing too often can cause gums to recede over time. Floss once a day.
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Routinely talk to your doctor about whether you should be screened.*
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Annually (or every 1 to 3 years, after 3 consecutive normal results)***
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Chlamydia
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Have an annual test for chlamydia if you are 25 or younger and sexually active.*
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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
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Discuss testing with your health care professional if you have more than one sexual partner, a partner with more than one sexual partner, a history of STDs or sexual contact with a person with an STD.
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Do a monthly self-examination for changes that should be reported to a doctor. Have regular skin checks by a doctor if you have already had skin cancer.****
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