Section Two

Playing it Safe

Tests

The following tests are recommended for persons between the ages of 11 and 24. If you have an increased risk for certain conditions, testing may need to be done sooner or more often. Additional tests may also need to be done. Follow your health care provider’s advice.

Health Test Ages 11-20 Ages 20-24
Height & Weight Every year or as advised by health care provider.
Blood Pressure During office visits. During office visits or at least every 2 years.
Chlamydia Screening1 All sexually active females aged 25 and younger.
Pap Test (Females) At least every 3 years starting at the onset of sexual activity or age 21 (whichever comes first).
Breast Self-Exam (BSE)2   Discuss with health care provider.
Breast Exam by Doctor or Nurse   Every 3 years.
Testicular Self-Exam (TSE)3 (Males) Starting at age 15, discuss with health care provider.
Cholesterol Blood Test4   As advised by your health care provider.
Regular Dental Checkup Every 6 months or at least every year.
  1. Screening is also recommended for females older than age 25 who: Have more than one sexual partner; have had an STI in the past; or who do not use condoms consistently and correctly. After initial screening, follow your health care provider’s advice for how often to have re-screenings.
  2. See “Breast Self-Exam (BSE).” {Note: Though rare, males can get breast cancer, too, and should look for and report a breast lump or other change to a health care provider.}
  3. See “Testicular Self-Exam (TSE).”
  4. In general, screening tests for blood cholesterol should begin at age 35 for men and age 45 for women. You may need to begin screening tests sooner if you have diabetes, a family history of heart disease, etc. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) should be part of the initial cholesterol testing.