Dr. Shaan Patel, a physician at Northside Diagnostic Clinic, shares four essential health screenings every adult in their 40s and 50s should prioritize.
- Breast cancer screening is crucial for women starting at age 40, with mammograms recommended every one to two years. Early detection has been shown to reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by 20%.
- Colon cancer screening is recommended for individuals beginning at age 45. Screening methods include a colonoscopy or stool tests that detect microscopic blood, both of which can help identify cancer early and improve treatment outcomes.
- Heart disease screening involves assessing cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension and smoking history. If the risk is high, cholesterol-lowering medication may be recommended to help prevent heart attacks or strokes.
- Lung cancer screening is essential for adults over 50 with a history of heavy smoking, defined as smoking a pack a day for 20 years. A low-dose CT scan can help detect lung cancer early before it spreads. This screening is recommended for both current smokers and those who have quit within the past 15 years.
Preventive screenings are key to detecting serious health conditions early and improving long-term health outcomes. Talk to your doctor about scheduling these important tests.
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