Preventative health for the well woman Published Nov. 19, 2013 By Lt. Col. Tara Piech 4th Medical Operations Squadron SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Over the years, prevention requirements for females have changed. Women are no longer required to receive annual Papanicolaou (Pap) smears and mammograms. With years of data to analyze, experts have discovered that the medical profession has often done more harm than good when we over-screen. It has led to many unnecessary procedures and increased patient anxiety at an enormous cost. We now also have an increased awareness of what type of patient is at an increased risk for disease, so we are better able to focus resources on specific populations. Below is a summary of screening recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a nationally recognized, evidence-based group of experts. Cervical Cancer Screening - Women ages 21 to 65 should be screened. - Women ages 21 to 29 should be screened every three years. Women ages 30 to 65 should have a pap smear and a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test every five years. - High risk patients are those who have an abnormal immune system, a history of a pre-cancer or cervical cancer. Breast Cancer Screening - Women ages 50 to 74 should be screened every two years. - High risk patients are known to have a genetic abnormality or have a first degree family relative with breast cancer (mother, sister etc.), especially if younger than 50. Ovarian Cancer Screening - High risk patients are those with two or more first or second degree relatives with ovarian cancer or a combination of breast and ovarian cancer, BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations, or Lynch Syndrome. These patients are referred to a center where genetic testing and counseling is done. - Screening is not recommended for the average risk population Physical Exams - There are no specific recommendations for an annual exam regardless of age. Some medical groups will support the idea of an annual visit to the doctor in order to review medical records, make sure the recommended screening and vaccinations are up-to-date and to discuss any behavioral issues such as smoking and weight loss. For more information about women's health or to schedule an appointment call the 4th Medical Group at (919) 722-1802.