Question

A 35-year-old lady comes for a consultation. She is worried since both her parents are on treatment for diabetes. She seeks advice from you in taking care of her health.
What are the common screening tests done in general practice?

Hint:

Screening tests help identify asymptomatic individuals at risk of disease, allowing early intervention and better health outcomes.

Answer 1

Screening tests are used in general practice to detect diseases at an early stage, when they are most treatable. Common tests include blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and cancer screenings like mammograms and Pap smears.
Common screening tests done in general practice include:
1. Blood Pressure Measurement: Used to screen for hypertension. Regular screening helps in the early detection of high blood pressure.
2. Blood Sugar Testing: Used to screen for diabetes or pre-diabetes, particularly in those at high risk, such as individuals with obesity or a family history of diabetes.
3. Cholesterol Testing: Used to assess risk for cardiovascular disease and detect hyperlipidemia.
4. Breast Cancer Screening (Mammography): A routine test for women aged 40-50 and older to screen for early signs of breast cancer.
5. Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smear): Used to detect cervical dysplasia or HPV infections in women, helping to prevent cervical cancer.
6. Colorectal Cancer Screening (Colonoscopy/Fecal Occult Blood Test): Screening for individuals over 50 years or those with a family history of colorectal cancer.
7. Vision and Hearing Screening: Especially in older adults to detect age-related vision loss or hearing impairment.
8. Prostate Cancer Screening (PSA Test): A blood test used in men over 50 years to screen for prostate cancer.