I just read an interesting article that suggests that certain routine medical tests are somewhat unnecessary after a certain age. Now, I believe the article (and subsequent information I have seen on the internet) is stating just having the test just because it is routine is not necessary. If you are feeling unwell or have any type of symptom or if you have one of the diseases in your family history that they think can be hereditary . . . of course have a test, but the information is talking about the recommended regular testing that comes once you reach age 50. The idea is that after 75 there are fewer benefits to the tests than when you are under that age.
A Harvard study reported that a colonoscopy past the age of 75 may do little to protect you from cancer. Other studies show that the risk of complications increases with age. Seems like the industry might be more accepting of it being an individual’s choice as opposed to a blanket recommendation. Again, if your health or medical history dictates it, then stick with the recommendations for regular screenings.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has no conclusion as to whether women over 74 should continue with the biennial mammograms, but a European study reported that the benefits of mammograms are limited. It further suggests that mammograms may lead to overtreatment and that the side effects are too risky for some women. Again, I believe they are talking about women without health risks and without a family history of breast cancer not needing the test every two years.
The PSA test is not recommended by any medical group past age 70. The USPSTF issued a statement in May of 2018 stating the benefits of the PSA test for prostate cancer did not outweigh the harm that may be caused in men over the age of 69. As I have been mentioning all along . . . if you are at risk or you feel you need this test make sure to get one.
If you have had three negative (for cervical cancer) Pap smears in the previous 10 years after age 65 a Pap smear is no longer something needed. Again, this is a personal and individualized issue . . . if you want to continue with this type of testing that is between you and your physician.
So you could be opting to opt out of these tests at a certain point. Seems like, unless they are necessary, there are other things we could be spending our time doing. Sounds good to me. Sometimes I think the regular testing and screening – without cause or evidence of it being necessary – can cause so much stress and worry it could actually result in disease.
What do you think?
Terre Pruitt's Blog 