Preventative Health Care
John Caresio
Mammograms
Mammograms are x-ray images of the breast used to detect breast cancer in woman who don't show any signs of the disease. This makes it possible to detect tumors that may not be able to be felt. The disease can be caused by many things including exposure to radiation or even genetics. Women over the age of 50 should get tested for breast cancer once every two years.
Pap Smears
A test that determines problems with a woman's cervix, such as infections or even cancer. This is done by using a small brush and taking a sample of mucus off the cervix and detects for abnormal or cancerous cells. Woman should begin screening 3 years after beginning sexual activities or after they reach the age of 21 and should be screened about once every three years.
Testicular Exams
Testicular exams check for unusually bumps on the testicles which can be the first sign of testicular cancer. It involves rolling the testicle between fingers and checking to see any lumps which could possibly be a tumor. Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer between the ages of 15-35 and can be done without a doctor but a doctor is recommended. This exam is recommended to be done once every year.
Prostate Exams
Prostate are exams of the prostate where a screening is down of the prostate to look for irregular cell growth which could be cancerous. This screening is usually done in men between the ages of 40-75 and is recommended to be done about once a year so if the patient does have Prostate cancer, they catch it early and before it spreads.