CR.ORG GUIDE TO WELLNESS 53POSSIBLE OUTCOMES: If a small
AAA is found (less than 2 inches
in diameter), your doctor will
monitor it closely. AAAs that are
larger or growing quickly may
need surgical repair.
Blood Chemistry
Screening
A complete blood count (CBC)
measures components of your
blood, such as red and white
blood cells; a metabolic panel
checks levels of substances
such as enzymes, electrolytes,
proteins, and blood sugar.
WHY IT’S DONE: To make sure
levels are normal. A CBC checks
for infection or conditions such
as anemia. A metabolic panel
checks the functioning of organs
such as kidneys and liver.
RECOMMENDED FOR: The
USPSTF recommends neither
for nor against the routine
use of these for healthy people.
They may be used for people
with blood-clotting conditions;
for those with chronic illnesses,
such as diabetes, kidney, or liver
disease; to check for drug side
effects; or before major surgery.
POSSIBLE OUTCOMES: If levels
are off, your doctor may suggest
changes in the management of
a chronic illness or medication,
or further testing to find the
cause of unexplained symptoms.Screening without a clear
cause—often done during
routine physicals—may pick up
harmless fluctuations that lead
to unneeded follow-up testing.Bone Density Screening
This low-dose X-ray (called a
DEXA scan) measures bone
density in your hips and spine.
WHY IT’S DONE: To screen for
osteopenia (low bone density) and
osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones).
RECOMMENDED FOR: Most
women at age 65, but earlier—around menopause—for women
with osteoporosis risk factors
such as a family history
or smoking, the USPSTF says.
For men, consider screening at
about 80, or sooner if at higher
risk for fractures (due to factors
such as smoking and long-term
steroid use).
POSSIBLE OUTCOMES: For
osteopenia, exercise and a diet
rich in vitamin D and calcium is
generally advised. Rescreen in
three to five years. If the scan
detects osteoporosis, you may
need medication to prevent
fractures, and rescreening in
two years. If results are normal,
repeat the test in 10 years.EKGsElectrocardiograms
don’t need to be
done for adults
who are at low risk
of cardiovascular
disease and have
no symptoms.