May 2008
Mammograms, Pap smears, bone density tests and other routine screenings offer early warnings of subtle changes that could become serious threats. Check out the Women's HealthCheck Book for age-specific screening guidelines, yours as part of Cedars-Sinai Women's Health Month. Then read on to learn more about the importance of regular visits to your primary care physician.
Government agencies and professional associations issue general screening guidelines. While the specifics may vary slightly from one organization to the next, the recommendations are based on solid medical evidence and provide a good foundation for the average individual at average risk. If you haven't talked to your doctor recently, find out why you should schedule a checkup that fits your personal profile. Digital technology makes mammograms highly sensitive, which is good. But this can lead to "false positive" results, and you may need to have more X-rays taken. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States and it can lead to cervical cancer. An existing vaccine can prevent many HPV infections, and an experimental vaccine is being studied. The Cedars-Sinai Women's Health Month website puts your health in your hands. Browse health topics ranging from back pain and breast cancer to stress and weight management.