Screening Matters: A Preventive Health Guide
Author: Dr. Elisabeth Nigrini
When it comes to breast cancer and overall health, early detection and routine care can make a meaningful difference. Regular screenings are an important part of staying well — not just for breast health, but across your lifespan. This guide highlights recommended screenings for women to help support prevention, early diagnosis, and long-term health.
Care for All Ages
- Annual preventive visit - A yearly checkup focused on prevention. This is also a good time to review and update vaccinations.
- Vision exam - Check with your eye doctor: You may need eye exams yearly.
- Mental health screening - At regular visits, talk openly with your provider about stress, anxiety, or mood changes.
- Diabetes screening - Your provider may recommend testing if you have symptoms or risk factors.
- HIV blood test or saliva test - Everyone should be tested at least once.
Recommended Screenings
✔ Blood pressure: at least once a year
✔ Cholesterol: at least every 4–6 years
✔ Pap test and/or HPV test: every 3–5 years, depending on the test
✔ Breast exam: once a year, starting at age 21
✔ Blood pressure: at least once a year
✔ Cholesterol: at least every 4–6 years
✔ Pap test and/or HPV test: every 3–5 years, depending on the test
✔ Colonoscopy: every 10 years, starting at age 45
✔ Mammogram: once a year, starting at age 40
✔ Bone density test: after menopause
✔ Blood pressure: at least once a year
✔ Cholesterol: at least every 4–6 years
✔ Pap test and/or HPV test: every 3–5 years, depending on the test (you may be able to stop screening after age 65)
✔ Colonoscopy: every 10 years
✔ Bone density test: after menopause
Pregnancy and Postpartum Screening
✔ Gestational diabetes: after 24 weeks of pregnancy
✔ Diabetes: within a year after pregnancy, if you had gestational diabetes
Complete Breast Imaging
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers nationwide, and early detection plays a key role in outcomes. Barton’s breast care program offers advanced imaging technologies, including:
- 3D mammography screening
- Breast MRI
- Contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM)
- MRI-guided breast biopsy
Individual screenings are determined by provider and patient. Check with your insurance to find out what preventive care is covered.
Dr. Elisabeth Nigrini is a board-certified OB/GYN physician at Barton Health. The team at Barton OB/GYN offers services to patients from offices in South Lake Tahoe and Minden. Learn more by calling 530.543.5711 or 775.364.1411.
