What should you be doing and when?

PAP: Every year -- unless you have history of HPV.  Tip to remember to schedule: Do it each year around your birthday or other memorable event.

MAMMOGRAM: Annually starting at 40, or for women with a family history (mother, sister, daughter, or multiple relatives), ten years prior to the age at diagnosis.

BREAST SELF-EXAM: EVERY month AFTER your period is finished (too lumpy and tender at other times). For women not menstruating  (or menopausal or lactating moms) pick a monthly bill (cell phone, credit card, etc) and use its arrival to time the self-exam.

COLONOSCOPY: Annually starting at age 50 -- or earlier if family history. A rectal occult stool test should be performed annually starting at age 40 by your OB/GYN.

CHOLESTEROL: Get your cholesterol level checked every 3-5 years by your mid-30s -- or earlier if there is a serious family history of heart disease.

DIABETES: Get screened annually if you had gestational diabetes or have a family history of the disease.