Preventive Screening Specialist

Preventive Screening Q & A

What is preventive screening?

Breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and heart disease, among other serious health issues, are some of the most common silent killers among women. Even if you never get sick, have a normal health history, and don’t have any chronic diseases that run in your family — that you know of — preventive screenings are still essential.

Serious, chronic diseases, including cancer, can be life-threatening. But they don’t develop overnight. preventive screenings involve taking measures to evaluate your health and look for abnormalities that could turn into something serious. Catching disease or serious issues early on makes it easier to treat and results in better outcomes.

Which type of preventive screening do I need?

Cary OB/GYN is home to some of the most advanced preventive screening tools and systems available, so you can feel confident that your testing is going to be effective. Depending on your age, personal and family health history, and any current symptoms, your preventive screening plan may include:

• Sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing
• Blood pressure check
• Cholesterol screening
• Bone density testing
• Blood glucose testing
• Mammogram
• Pap smear
• Breast exam
• Pelvic exam
• Urinalysis

Many of these preventive cancer screening and disease testing options are part of your annual well-woman exam, although your OB/GYN can add on additional screening based on your needs.

How often do I need preventive screening?

It depends on your health, results from your last preventive screening tests, and family medical history. In most cases, the team at Cary OB/GYN want you to schedule annual well-woman visits to perform routine blood tests, pelvic and breast exams, and other evaluations.

If you have normal Pap tests, you might only need to repeat them every three to five years. But with mammograms, your OB/GYN could recommend testing every one to two years. In any case, the team of highly skilled practitioners at Cary OB/GYN personalize your preventive screenings to you and your concerns.

Take control of your wellness and schedule a preventive screening appointment at Cary OB/GYN today. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at the office nearest you.