Tests

Description

Should I Get This Test?

Bone Density

Various devices are available for measuring bone density. All are painless, but some involve small amounts of radiation exposure

Yes, if you are female age 65, or age 60 with risk factors for bone fractures. For more information, please see http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bone-density-tests/WO00024

Cardiac Stress Treadmill

Walking/running on a treadmill with cardiac monitoring

Maybe. Stress tests are not generally recommended in persons without chest pain or tightness during exercise. However, they can be of value if you are middle-aged or older, haven't been physically active, and plan to start a relatively vigorous exercise program. Otherwise, the risks and emotional stress associated with having to undergo extensive follow-up studies to evaluate “false positives” probably outweighs the benefits of screening.

Chest X-ray

No. Chest X-rays in persons without symptoms are not generally recommended. The risks and emotional stress associated with having to undergo extensive follow-up studies to evaluate “false positives” probably outweighs the benefits of screening. This is true even in smokers at high risk of lung cancer.

Coronary Calcium Study

CT scanning to detect calcified plaque

No. To find out why, please see http://www.mayoclinic.com/ health/heart-disease/HB00015

Fecal Blood

Rectal exam with testing for traces of blood

Yes, if you are age 50 or more. Blood in the stool may be caused by cancer. The rectal exam may also reveal prostate abnormalities in men.

Full Body CT Scan

No. To find out why, please see http://www.mayo clinic.com/health/ct-scan/AN00601

Mammogram

Yes, if you are 40 or more.

PAP Smear

Maybe, depending on your age and previous PAP smear results. Please see http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pap-smear/HQ01177

PSA

Blood test for prostate cancer

Maybe, if you are age 50 or more. This test has a lot of pros and cons. Please review http://www.mayoclinic.com/ health/prostate-cancer/HQ01273

Sigmoidoscopy

Examination of the lower bowel requiring liquid diet on prior day, or enema on day of test.

Yes, if you are age 50 or more. This test (or it's more comprehensive cousin, colonoscopy) is universally recommended as an effective cancer screening procedure.

Strength and Flexibility Assessment

Assessment using resistance equipment and performance of push-ups and sit-ups

Yes, if you would like to assess and improve your physical fitness