Get Screened: Essential Preventive Screening in Primary Care
Cancer Screening
Breast Cancer:
Women aged 50–74 should have a mammogram every 2 years.
Cervical Cancer:
Women aged 21–64 should have a Pap test every 3 years, or Pap + HPV test every 5 years for ages 30–64.
Colorectal Cancer:
Adults aged 45–75 should be screened. Options include annual fecal immunochemical test (FIT), or colonoscopy every 10 years. Discuss test options with your provider.
Lung Cancer:
Adults aged 50–80 with a 20+ pack-year smoking history, who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years, should consider annual low-dose CT screening.
Prostate Cancer:
Men aged 50–70 should discuss the risks and benefits of PSA screening with their provider.
Cardiovascular Risk
Blood Pressure:
Check at least annually for adults.
Cholesterol:
Screen adults aged 40–75, or earlier if risk factors present.
Diabetes:
Screen adults aged 35–70 who are overweight or obese.
Behavioral Health
Depression:
Routine screening for adults during primary care visits.
Alcohol Use:
Screen all adults, including pregnant women, for unhealthy alcohol use and provide brief intervention if needed. https://oasas.ny.gov/treatment
Smoking:
Ask about tobacco use and offer cessation support. https://www.nysmokefree.com/
Other Preventive Measures
Obesity:
Assess BMI and counsel on healthy weight.
Healthy Diet & Exercise:
Discuss lifestyle modifications for disease prevention.
Talk to your primary care provider about which screenings are right for you based on your age, sex, and risk factors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Healthcare | Irongate Family Practice
What health screenings should I get based on my age and risk factors?
The right screenings depend on your age, sex, family history, lifestyle, and personal health risks. Common preventive screenings may include blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, breast cancer, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer screening. Your provider can help create a screening schedule based on your individual needs. Irongate Family Practice emphasizes preventive care and offers guidance on recommended screenings.
How often should I have preventive health screenings?
There isn’t one schedule that works for everyone. Some screenings are recommended annually, while others may be performed every several years depending on your age and risk factors. During your routine primary care visits, your provider can review your health history and determine which screenings are currently appropriate.
Which cancer screening tests are recommended for adults?
Recommended cancer screenings can include mammograms, cervical cancer screening, colorectal cancer screening, prostate cancer screening, and lung cancer screening for eligible adults. The timing depends on age and individual risk factors. Irongate Family Practice provides preventive screening guidance to help patients stay current with recommended testing.
Have questions about your healthcare, prescriptions, records, or next steps? Irongate Family Practice is available to help you navigate your care with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. Call 518-793-4409 to connect with the practice.
