"It can't happen to me." That's the unfortunate mind-set that causes many people to skip simple medical screening tests. As a result, thousands die each year from diseases that could have been treated. Consider these figures:
- If everyone over 50 followed official colon-cancer screening recommendations, the death rate from colon cancer would be reduced by up to 50%.
- Widespread blood pressure screening and treatment have cut the death rate from stroke and heart attack by at least 50%.
- In women over age 50, yearly mammograms reduce the breast-cancer death rate by 30%.
- Between 1955 and 1992, deaths from cervical cancer declined by 74%, mainly because women started having regular Pap tests.
To help you figure out which tests you need, we've compiled lists of exams for men and women in three age groups. These are recommendations for healthy people at average risk. Talk to your doctor about a schedule that meets your needs.
Adapted from Looking After Your Body © 2001
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