There are a number of tests and screening tools available that help find medical problems at an early stage so they can be treated more easily and effectively. But along with the tests come questions. At what age should you be tested for the first time? Which tests are appropriate for you? How often should the tests be repeated?

The best person to help you answer these questions is your primary care physician. He or she can look at your specific situation and assist you in developing a screening plan that is individualized to meet your needs.

Here are just some of the tests Raiter Clinic offers:

Blood pressure check:
check at each regular health care visit.

Body Mass Index (BMI):
check at each regular health care visit.

Clinical breast exam (CBE) and mammography:
get a CBE every 3 years until age 40, then yearly with your mammogram.

Pap test:
Women age 20 to 30 receive an annual pap test to start. Depending on individual circumstances the interval may be lengthened to every two to three years. Women over 30 should have this test once every one to three years, depending on their individual medical history.

Cholesterol check:
starting at age 20, get tested every 5 years.

Blood glucose (sugar) test:
starting at age 45, have your fasting blood glucose checked every 3 years.

Colon screening:
starting at age 50, get screened every 1 to 10 years, depending on the type of test.

Bone density
starting at age 65, frequency of retesting depends on individual factors.