It’s always important to take stock of your health. Preventative screenings should be at the forefront of people's minds, as they can make a critical difference should a health concern need to be addressed.
While routine health checks — like blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring — are widely understood and used, tests for colorectal cancer, coronary heart disease and osteoporosis are frequently overlooked, yet among the most essential tools for early detection. These screenings can save lives by identifying risks before symptoms appear, allowing patients to proactively monitor their health and make informed decisions for a healthier year.
1. Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States for both men and women. Alarmingly, rates are rising in younger adults, with projections estimating 15% of cases will be patients under 50 by 2030. However, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early.
“Colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening,” gastroenterologist Dr. Justin Forde said. “It allows us not only to detect early cancer but to prevent it entirely by removing any polyps we find.”
A colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for identifying and removing polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon that can evolve into cancer if left untreated. The procedure uses a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope (which includes a small camera and light) to help doctors visualize the inside of a patient’s colon. This screening is particularly critical for Black men and women at large, who are disproportionately affected by colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends a colonoscopy starting at age 45 for these higher-risk groups.
There is an added urgency for women, as they are at increased risk of developing right-sided colon cancer, a harder-to-detect and more aggressive form of the cancer. Unfortunately, one-third of women delay or skip their screenings, but scheduling a colonoscopy can help patients lower their risk of developing advanced colorectal cancer.
“If you’re over 45, talk to your doctor about getting screened,” Dr. Forde added. “It’s a simple step that could save your life.”
2. EKG for coronary heart disease
Despite being the leading cause of death in the U.S. for over a century, heart disease remains underrecognized, with more than half of U.S. adults unaware of its prevalence. While historically seen as a “man’s disease,” cardiovascular disease claims more women’s lives each year than men’s.
Women frequently experience atypical symptoms like back pain, nausea or fatigue, or burning in the chest or abdominal discomfort. These subtle signs can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, underscoring the importance of testing.
“Recent guidelines emphasize the importance of regular heart health monitoring — annual tests such as a lipid profile, blood pressure and heart rate checks are essential,” cardiologist Dr. Manfred Sandler said.
“In cases where there is a higher risk or existing cardiovascular issues, an EKG (electrocardiogram) might also be necessary,” Dr. Sandler added. “These routine tests help to catch potential problems early, improving the chances of successful intervention.”
EKGs record the electrical activity of the heart, which can show if a heart’s rhythm is irregular, the speed at which it is beating, and the strength of the electrical signals. This snapshot of heart activity can help doctors determine a baseline check of a person’s heart and whether more detailed tests will be needed.
3. Bone densitometry for osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because it progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs. By 2030 — with Georgia’s aging population continuing to rise — over 20% of the state’s population will be 60 or older, meaning addressing this silent disease and maintaining bone health will be a larger priority.
The condition is defined by weakening bones, increasing the risk of fractures. This disproportionately affects women, with one in four women over 65 being affected. Younger women are also vulnerable, especially if they smoke, consume excessive alcohol or lead sedentary lifestyles.
“Osteoporosis is an asymptomatic process; there aren't really any signs until someone has a fracture,” said orthopedic surgeon Dr. Everett Young. “To account for this, it is crucial patients get a bone density scan because that can help us intervene early.”
DEXA scans are the gold standard for detecting osteoporosis early; these scans measure bone density, giving patients clues into early signs of the condition. By detecting osteoporosis early, patients can make lifestyle changes — such as weight-bearing exercises, nutritional changes that prioritize calcium and vitamin D, and limiting alcohol consumption — that can reduce the risk of fractures and improve bone health.
“For those who are scared to develop osteoporosis, I always tell my patients the best way to slow down bone density loss is to stay active and use your bones and muscles, whether that means walking every day or finding a hobby that gets you moving,” Dr. Young added.
Preventative screenings, like colonoscopies, EKGs and DEXA scans, can provide invaluable insight into patients’ health, enabling earlier interventions and optimizing outcomes. Patients should consider these screenings if they think they are at high risk and ask their doctors for more information if they notice symptoms. Ultimately, while prevention is better than reactive care, Northside Hospital stands ready to help patients take early preventative steps and provide treatment to those who need it for long, healthy lives.
Find more screening information from Northside.
