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The Power of Prevention
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| More than one third of deaths in this country are preventable. Furthermore, black Americans often share a disproportionate burden of many chronic diseases and conditions. Many of these conditions — high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer — are largely preventable or controllable by adopting healthier behaviors and obtaining regular screenings. Medicare provides coverage for many preventive screenings. Call 1-800-MEDICARE for additional information. |
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Condition
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Test
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Frequency*
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Breast cancer
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Mammogram
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Yearly
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Cervical cancer
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Pap test
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1 – 3 years
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Prostate cancer
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PSA, DRE
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Yearly
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Colorectal cancer
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Various**
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1 – 10 years
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Source: American Cancer Society
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Hypertension
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Blood pressure check
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Every regular health care visit
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High cholesterol
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Fasting lipoprotein profile
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Every 5 years
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Diabetes
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Blood glucose
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Every 3 years
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Obesity
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Body Mass Index and Waist circumference
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Every regular health care visit
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Source: American Heart Association
*Frequency depends on risk factors and the type of test. Consult your doctor for appropriate exam and schedule.
**Sigmoidoscopy, barium enema, colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test or fecal immunochemical test
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