At some point in our lives, most of us have heard the term "screening tests", but we usually consider it a term that does not apply to our own needs. That assumption is incorrect; both men and women require certain screenings at certain times in their lives, sharing a number of common concerns such as cancer, heart failure and diabetes. Yet, the core tests which are recommended for men and women to take vary slightly.
Starting these tests early in the twenties or thirties can allow medical practitioners to 1) keep a medical record and track the patient's health and 2) identify certain potential worry zones that the patient can keep an eye on. The following is a list of medical test which men and women should undertake. Developed by the US Preventive Services Task Force, this list is not comprehensive and it is recommended that everyone speak with their medical practitioners to be guided through what specific tests are needed.
For Men:
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Prostate Cancer
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- STI or STDs
Recommended exam guide for men, organized by age
For Women
Women also need to consider regular screenings, especially for conditions such as breast cancer and cervical cancer. Some of the common tests women will share with men include:
- Colon Cancer
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Obesity
- Sexually Transmitted Infections.
Other tests which should be researched include:
- Breast Cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Depression
- Osteoporosis
- Skin Cancer
Recommended exam guide for women, organized by age
Other tests which you may be putting off, but which you should conduct on a regular basis include:
- Dental checkups
- Eye Exams
- Breast Self Exams
- Testicular Self Examinations
