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Ages and Stages: 50-64

Ages 50-64: Screening and Immunization Guidelines

Well Woman Checkup

Every year — including weight, height.
This checkup also includes:

  • Blood Pressure - every 2 years if normal (<120/80)
  • Blood Pressure - every year or more often if higher than 120/80
  • Diabetes Blood Glucose - if your blood pressure is > 135/80 or if you take blood pressure medication
  • Cholesterol test - get regular testing if you are at risk for heart disease

Pelvic Exam

Yearly

  • Pap test and HPV screen for cancer - every 5 years if you have a cervix
  • Chlamydia and Gonorrhea - get tested if you are sexually active and at increased risk (new or multiple partners).
  • Syphilis - get tested if you are at increased risk

Clinical breast exam

Every year

  • Breast Self-Exam - become familiar with how your breasts look and feel throughout your menstrual cycle so you can identify any changes and discuss with your provider.
  • Mammogram - Every 2 years - starting at age 50 (or sooner is you have risk factors- discuss with your Provider)

HIV Screening

  • All women should be offered a 1-time screening. Follow up testing should be done based on individual risk.

Bone Mineral Density Test (DEXA Scan)

  • Discuss with your Provider if you are at risk of Osteoporosis or have had non-traumatic fracture

Colorectal Screening

  • Starting at age 50 (or earlier if there are risk factors like family history) Three different tests are available. Discuss with your Provider which test is best for you and how often you need screening.

Lung Cancer Screening

  • For women between 55 and 74 who smoked one pack/day for 30 years or more, or two packs/day for 15 years or have quit smoking these amounts less than 15 years ago.

Recommended Immunizations

  • Seasonal Flu Vaccine - every year
  • Diphtheria/Tetanus - every 10 years
  • Varicella Zoster Vaccine (for Shingles) - single vaccination

These are guidelines only. Your health care provider will personalize the timing and frequency of screening tests for you based on your personal health factors.

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