3.5 Preventive health check-ups

Preventive check-ups are important for your health. They help to identify many chronic diseases early and to start treatment in time.

Important health check-ups include:

• Gynaecological screening: The screening helps your gynaecologist detect early signs of breast cancer or cervical cancer. You can also discuss questions about menstruation, sexuality and contraception.

• Bone density test: The test is a special X-ray scan of your bones. If you are suspected to have osteoporosis, the costs will be paid by your health insurance fund.

• Mammography: A mammography is used to examine the breast for any changes for the early detection of breast cancer. In Austria, all women aged 40 and older can participate in a free mammography screening programme.

• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is the most important examination for the early detection of bowel cancer.