Preventive Care Guidelines
Definitions
Bone Density Test: A low dose X-ray to screen for risk of thinning and weakening of bones, which increase the risk of osteoporosis and fracture.
Chlamydia Screening Test: A screening test for detecting chlamydia, a curable sexually transmitted infection that can cause scarring, infertility and chronic pelvic infection.
Colonoscopy: A fiber optic video of the entire colon for detection of polyps and early detection of colon cancer.
Fecal Occult Blood Test: A screening test for hidden blood in the stool, which may be a sign of colon cancer.
Health Maintenance Exam: A "check up" to help maintain health and plan appropriate preventive care.
HPV Vaccine: A vaccine currently FDA approved for girls ages 9 - 26. It protects against four types of HPV virus that may lead to cervical cancer and/or genital warts.
Lipid Screen: A blood test for assessing levels of fats and cholesterol that can increase risk of heart disease and stroke.
LDL: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol carries mostly fat and only a small amount of protein from the liver to other parts of the body. It is sometimes called "bad cholesterol." A high LDL cholesterol level may increase your chances of developing heart disease.
Mammogram: A low dose breast X-ray to screen for breast cancer.
Pap Smear: A test for abnormal cervical cells which can indicate increased risk of cervical cancer. This is not a test for uterine or ovarian cancer. Pap smears are done during an internal pelvic examination.
Pneumovax®: A pneumococcal vaccine recommended for those 65 or older and those 2 years or older at high risk for disease.
PPD: The tuberculin test (PPD) identifies those who have the tuberculosis germ present in their bodies. It's possible to have the germ with no symptoms, but a high amount can cause sickness later in life.
PSA: (Prostate Specific Antigen) A blood test for measuring a protein. High levels may be associated with prostate cancer.
Sigmoidoscopy: An internal inspection of the lower colon to screen for cancer and polyps (pre-cancerous growths).
Tetanus Vaccination: Vaccination used to prevent tetanus (Td, DT, Tdap, DTaP). Often called "lockjaw," it can lead to painful tightening of the muscles, either all over the body and/or specifically the jaw, making it hard to open the mouth or swallow.
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