Medical Tests That You Should Get at The Age of 60 and Up
Ageing is inevitable, but suffering may not be. As time marches on, the human body is bound to slow down and become vulnerable to a myriad of health conditions. But with proper medical care, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle, one can steer clear of many medical conditions or simply monitor them well.
Here are a few diagnostic lab tests that one should include in their regular health check-ups once they cross 60:
Blood Pressure
Millions of people who have high blood pressure are not even aware of it. Since people at this age are at a higher risk, they should get their blood pressure checked every year. However, if the test reports indicate high blood pressure or the individual is at a higher risk, the screening should be done more often.
Bone Mineral Density Test
This is highly recommended for individuals who have suffered from fracture(s), and patients with diseases or conditions that are known to be associated with bone loss and osteoporosis. Since they are at a higher risk, they should get this test done at a regular interval. It is recommended that women should start getting this test once they reach the age of 65. However, if they are at a higher risk, they should start at an earlier age.
Mammogram
Women should get a mammogram every one to two years starting at age 40 or 50. This is extremely important since the risk of breast cancer increases with the increase in age. Some health care professionals suggest that carrying out a breast self-examination each month can also be helpful. But in case of uncertainty, they can seek medical assistance and enquire about when they should begin regular mammograms and how often they should get them done.
These are some of the most common diagnostic lab tests that people should get once they cross 60 years of age.