Ascension Florida encourages women to schedule essential health screenings

May is Women's Health Month, and May 10 through 16 marks National Women's Health Week. At Ascension Florida sites of care, we are using this time to remind women in our community about the importance of routine health screenings and preventive care.

Many women delay regular health checkups and annual exams. Because routine screenings are essential for identifying health concerns early, when they are most treatable, our care teams are encouraging patients to schedule their regular health check-ups. Key screenings and wellness markers women should prioritize include:

• Mammograms: Our care teams recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40. Women with a family history of breast cancer should consult with their doctor about beginning these screenings earlier.
• Colon Screenings: Clinical guidelines suggest that most adults begin screenings at age 45. A colonoscopy is a specific type of colon screening that allows physicians to find and remove polyps before they develop into cancer.
• Well-Woman Visits: A yearly well-woman visit is a foundational part of preventive health. These visits typically include a Pap smear to detect cervical cancer and provide an opportunity to discuss physical and emotional health with a provider.
• Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and Blood Sugar: Monitoring these vital health markers helps patients understand their risk for heart disease and diabetes. Tracking these figures allows for the creation of a personalized care plan for long-term health.

Our care teams focus on treating the whole person, including the mind, body and spirit. We are committed to providing professional, personalized care to every individual. This Women's Health Week, we invite you to take a proactive step in your health journey.

To find a doctor or schedule a screening in the Jacksonville area visit ascension.org/StVincentsWomens and in the Northwest Florida Panhandle go to ascension.org/gulfcoastwomens.