How often should a 46-year-old female considered low risk be screened for cholesterol?

• A. 3 years
• B. 4 years
• C. 6 years
• D. 5 years

Answer: (D)

Screening frequency for cholesterol depends on risk level. For adults aged roughly 40 to 75 who are at low risk and have no cardiovascular disease, lipid testing is generally recommended every 4 to 6 years. In a 46-year-old woman considered low risk, a 5-year interval sits in the middle of that range and aligns with common practice for maintaining routine surveillance without over-testing. Shorter intervals (like every 3 years) are reserved for higher risk or abnormal results, while a 6-year interval, though within the upper limit, is less typical than the standard 5-year cadence used in this context.