What does this tool measure?

This interactive tool asks you questions about your health and your health history. Then it creates a list of screening tests you may need. This tool is for adults age 21 and older who are not pregnant. If you are not in this group, talk to your doctor about the screening tests that are best for you.

Screening for a disease means having a test to find out if you have a disease when symptoms first appear or even before they appear. Screening is important, because the sooner your doctor diagnoses a disease, the more likely it can be cured or managed. Managing a disease, especially when you first get it, may reduce its impact on your life or prevent or delay serious problems.

The tool uses the current recommendations of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). USPSTF recommendations are sometimes different from those of other professional organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or the American College of Physicians. Always talk with your doctor to decide which screening tests are best for you and how often you may need them.

The tool asks you questions about:

• Gender and age. Your gender and/or age may raise your chances of getting certain diseases.
• Blood pressure. Blood pressure is given as two numbers separated by a slash. For example, 120/80 is read as "120 over 80." High blood pressure may put you at risk for heart problems.
• Diabetes. Having diabetes puts you at risk for other diseases.
• Cholesterol. Cholesterol and other fats are found in your blood. The level of cholesterol in your blood may put you at risk for heart problems.
• Family history. If others in your family currently have or have had high cholesterol levels, or have had a heart attack or a stroke, you may be at risk for heart problems.
• Lifestyle. Your lifestyle may put you at risk for certain diseases. Try not to be embarrassed by or angry with questions about your sex life or tobacco use. If you answer the questions honestly, you may prevent future health problems. The information you provide is confidential. It is deleted as soon as you close or exit the tool.

What do the results tell me?

You will receive a list of the screening tests recommended by the USPSTF as well as other screenings to consider.

What's next?

Print a copy of the recommended screening tests. Take the list with you when you visit your doctor. Talk to your doctor about which screenings you may need. Your doctor may change the list based on your special needs. He or she will explain what is involved in each screening test and answer any questions you may have.

You may not have to go to your doctor's office for some screening tests. You may be able to do some tests at a health fair, your local pharmacy, or even at home.

For more information, see the topics Early Disease Detection and Immunizations.

Source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (2010). Guide to Clinical Preventive Services, 2010-2011: Recommendations of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (AHRQ Publication No. 10-05145). Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Also available online: http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/pocketgd.htm.