Health Screening 101: Essential Tests for Men and Women (and Why They Matter)

What It Does: Screens for cervical cancer by identifying abnormal cells in the cervix that may become cancerous if left untreated.

Why It’s Important:  Can help prevent cervical cancer by identifying precancerous changes, enabling timely treatment. Early intervention can stop these changes from developing into cancer.

Women are generally advised to begin Pap smears at 21 years old and repeat every three years, alongside a HPV Test, depending on their health history and doctor’s recommendations.

What It Does: A bone density test, often called a DEXA* scan, measures bone density and strength to assess the risk of osteoporosis.

Why It’s Important: It’s essential for post-menopausal women to prevent fractures and maintain bone health, as they face a higher risk of osteoporosis due to declining estrogen levels, which  negatively impacts bone density.

Interventions such as lifestyle changes, calcium or vitamin D supplementation, and medications designed to strengthen bones can help prevent fractures when bone density loss is detected early.

Bone density testing is typically recommended for women over the age of 65 or for younger post-menopausal women with additional risk factors, such as a family history of osteoporosis or long-term use of corticosteroids.

*DEXA stands for dual energy x-ray absorptiometry

What It Does: Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to detect early signs of breast cancer, often before a lump is large enough to be felt.

Why It’s Important: Early detection of breast cancer can significantly improve survival rates. According to research, mammograms can reduce breast cancer mortality by up to 30% for women aged 40 and older. Women are typically advised to begin mammograms at age 40, although those with higher risk factors, such as family history, may need to start earlier.

While mammograms are the gold standard for breast cancer screening, they are not perfect. In some cases, particularly in women with dense breast tissue, abnormalities may not be visible on a mammogram. This is where additional tests, such as breast ultrasounds, can play an important role.

What It Does: Prostate cancer screening typically involves a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal exam.

Why It’s Important: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Early detection through PSA testing can lead to early treatment, which significantly improves survival rates.

Men over the age of 50 are generally advised to begin regular prostate screenings, while those with higher risk factors, such as a family history of prostate cancer, may start earlier.

What It Does: Involves regular checks of cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and heart-related tests like electrocardiograms (ECGs) and stress tests to assess heart function and overall cardiovascular health.

Why It’s Important: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men worldwide. Monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure levels regularly can help detect risk factors early, allowing for preventive measures. By making lifestyle changes, such as improving diet and increasing physical activity, alongside medication if needed, the risk of heart disease and stroke can be significantly reduced.

What It Does: Involves colonoscopies and other screening tools to detect colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps in the colon and rectum.

Why It’s Important: Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Regular screenings, typically recommended to start at age 45, can significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer mortality.

During a colonoscopy, any polyps found can be removed before they develop into cancer, making this screening particularly effective in preventing the disease.

*Screening scopes can be done by making an appointment with a general surgeon, colorectal surgeon, or a gastroenterologist.

**Scopes are not performed in the Health Screening Centre

What It Does: Allergy tests, including blood tests and skin prick tests, identify specific allergens that may trigger allergic reactions.

Why It’s Important: Understanding your allergens allows you to avoid triggers and manage allergic reactions more effectively. Since allergies can range from mild to severe, identifying them early can prevent serious reactions, such as anaphylaxis.

What It Does: A vitamin D test measures the level of this essential vitamin in your blood.

Why It’s Important: Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Deficiencies are common and can result in bone disorders, such as osteoporosis, as well as a weakened immune system.

Early detection of low vitamin D levels allows for timely interventions, such as supplementation and lifestyle changes, to support overall health.

Health screenings are a proactive way to take control of your health and well-being.

By staying on top of the recommended tests and check-ups, both men and women can catch potential health issues early, reduce risk factors, and ultimately enjoy longer, healthier lives.

Make those appointments, consult with your healthcare provider, and take the necessary steps to protect your health for the future