Preventive medicine: When to screen for disease in older patients

Goals for health promotion and disease prevention in older patients include reducing premature mortality caused by chronic and acute illnesses, maintaining functional independence, extending life expectancy, and maintaining or enhancing quality of life. Determining whether a screen or intervention is warranted depends upon several key factors: whether the disease or condition will significantly impact a patient's quality of life, whether acceptable methods of treatment are available, and implications of delaying treatment. Although most diseases progress insidiously and undetected, there is a window of opportunity for screening and prevention during the asymptomatic phase. Some of the most effective interventions involve lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation and regular physical activity.