Screening is a very useful and mostly voluntary tool for maintaining health by identifying potential issues early, often before symptoms occur.
Early detection can lead to more effective treatments and improved health outcomes.
It is also essential to know what we can screen for and what we cannot. There is no need to lose sleep over diseases for which there is no obvious screening tool. Instead focus on what we can test for and what changes you can make to improve your chances of living a longer, fitter, and happier life. Unless previously advised, screening for several diseases is typically conducted every other year. These include breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and diabetes (in the absence of a previous diagnosis).
It is worth checking your blood pressure and weight more regularly.
Do you require regular blood work? No is the short answer. However, if you were previously diagnosed with certain chronic conditions, take certain medications, have spesific dietary restrictions/choices, etc., this may change. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with this by discussing it with the team and gaining a clear understanding.
Please Note
These screening guidelines apply only to those at average risk. If you have a family history of cancer, symptoms, or other risk factors, you may be classified as higher risk. In such cases, we recommend discussing personalized screening options with your physician to ensure appropriate care.
Cancer Screening
Average risk:
- Breast Cancer Screening: Regular mammograms for eligible women.
- Cervical Cancer Screening: In office or holding tests for women aged 25 to 69.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) for adults aged 50 to 74.
- Lung cancer screening (eligible for ages 55-74 and who have smoked 20 years or more either currently or in the past)
Other cancers: There are also other cancers that people frequently ask about most notably ovarian, prostate, skin cancer. There is no recognized and approved screening program for these and instead this is a conversation you should have with your primary care provider based on family history, symptoms etc.
These screenings can be scheduled with our primary care nurse, who will evaluate your health and discuss a team-based approach to your care. Our collaborative healthcare team will support you with guidance, follow-up care, and personalized health plans.
Chronic Illness Screening
In addition to cancer screening, monitoring for chronic illnesses such as:
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Diabetes
- Chronic kidney disease
- Chronic obstructive lung disease
- Other Common Chronic Conditions