Health Tips for Women

Women should consider the following screening tests:

· Pap smears every one to three years if sexually active or older than 21.

· Chlamydia tests if age 25 or younger and sexually active; if older, discuss test with healthcare provider; also, discuss testing for other sexually transmitted diseases if needed.

· Blood pressure checked at least every two years.

· Diabetes tests if diagnosed with high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

· Depression screening if feeling "down," sad or hopeless, with little interest or pleasure in doing things when these feelings last for two weeks straight.

· Mammograms every one to two years starting at age 40.

· Cholesterol checks regularly, starting at age 45 (if smoker or diabetic or if heart disease runs in the family, cholesterol checks should start at age 20).

· Colorectal cancer tests starting at age 50.

· Osteoporosis tests starting at age 65; if you are between the ages of 60 and 64 and weigh 154 pounds or less, testing should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Prevention is the key to healthy living. Getting preventive screenings and immunizations are among the most important things you can do remain healthy.