May is Women’s Health Month, making it the perfect time to prioritize preventive care. Regular screenings help catch health issues early—often before symptoms appear—and empower women to take control of their long-term well-being.
Here are the top five preventive screenings every woman should consider scheduling:
1. Breast Cancer Screening
What is it?
A breast cancer screening usually involves a mammogram, which is a low-dose X-ray that takes images of breast tissue to look for signs of cancer before any symptoms appear. It’s a quick, non-invasive test that can detect tumors that are too small to feel.
Why it matters:
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Early detection through mammograms can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
When to start:
- Women aged 40 and older should have annual mammograms, or earlier if they have a family history of breast cancer.
How we can help:
Talk to your provider about when and how often you should be screened based on your personal risk factors. Learn more about FTOC’s mammogram services.
2. Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smear and HPV Test)
What is it?
Cervical cancer screenings include the Pap smear, which checks for abnormal cells on the cervix, and the HPV test, which detects the human papillomavirus—a leading cause of cervical cancer. These simple, in-office tests are often done together and can help prevent cancer when caught early.
Why it matters:
Regular Pap smears and HPV testing can detect abnormal cells before they turn into cervical cancer.
When to start:
- Pap smear: Every 3 years starting at age 21.
- HPV co-testing: Starting at age 30, every 5 years if both tests are normal.
How we can help:
Our providers offer gentle, confidential cervical cancer screenings and can guide you through your preventive care plan.
3. Heart Health Screening
What is it?
Heart health screening involves a set of tests that check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels to evaluate your risk of heart disease. These tests are usually done through a blood draw and a quick blood pressure reading at your provider’s office.
Why it matters:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, yet many women underestimate their risk.
What to check:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Blood sugar levels
When to start:
- Blood pressure checks should start in your 20s.
Cholesterol testing by age 45 (or earlier with risk factors).
Blood sugar screening based on weight and family history.
How we can help:
Our team can provide heart health assessments and personalized prevention strategies.
4. Bone Density Test
What is it?
A bone density test (also called a DEXA scan) measures how strong your bones are by looking at the amount of calcium and other minerals they contain. It’s a painless scan, usually done on your hip and spine, that can help detect osteoporosis before a fracture happens.
Why it matters:
Women are at higher risk for osteoporosis, especially after menopause. A bone density test can help prevent fractures by identifying low bone mass early.
When to start:
- At age 65, or earlier if you have risk factors such as early menopause or a family history of osteoporosis.
How we can help:
Your provider can assess your risk factors and recommend when to schedule a bone density scan.
5. Colorectal Cancer Screening
What is it?
Colorectal cancer screening can include tests like colonoscopy, stool tests, or flexible sigmoidoscopy to find abnormal growths (polyps) or signs of cancer in the colon or rectum. A colonoscopy, the most common method, is a procedure where a doctor uses a small camera to examine the large intestine.
Why it matters:
Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms. Screenings like colonoscopies can catch it early when it’s most treatable.
When to start:
- Beginning at age 45, or earlier with a family history or other risk factors.
How we can help:
We can coordinate colorectal cancer screening options that fit your needs and comfort level.
Prioritize Your Health Today
At Families Together of Orange County, we offer a variety of preventive care services to help you stay on top of your health. Talk to your provider about scheduling the screenings that are right for you. Early detection saves lives—and your health is worth it!
Call us today at 1 (800) 597-7977 to schedule your preventive care appointments.
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