Main Preventative Screening Types

The recommendations per age and gender

For All Adults (Regardless of Gender):

Ages 18-39

Blood Pressure: Every 2-3 years if normal; annually if elevated.
Cholesterol: Start at age 20, especially if at risk for heart disease; every 4-6 years.
Body Mass Index (BMI): Assessed during routine check-ups to monitor weight.
Diabetes: Screening for blood glucose or HbA1c if overweight or with family history.
Dental Check-ups: Twice a year to prevent oral diseases.
Mental Health: Regular evaluations for depression or anxiety, especially during life changes.

Ages 40-64

Blood Pressure: Annually or more frequently if elevated.
Cholesterol: Every 4-6 years or more frequently if abnormal.
Blood Sugar (Diabetes): Every 3 years starting at age 45.
Colorectal Cancer Screening: Begin at age 45 with tests such as a colonoscopy every 10 years or annual stool tests.
Vision Exams: Every 2-4 years to check for glaucoma or other issues.

Ages 65 and Older

Bone Density: Women should begin screenings at 65, earlier if risk factors exist; men may need it at 70.
Hearing Tests: Every 3 years to check for age-related hearing loss.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: One-time screening for men aged 65-75 who have ever smoked.

For Women:

Ages 18-39

Pap Smear and HPV Test: Begin at age 21, every 3 years, or every 5 years with HPV co-testing after age 30.
Breast Self-Exams: Monthly self-checks to become familiar with any changes.

Ages 40-64

Mammograms: Begin at age 40; every 1-2 years based on personal and family history.
Bone Density: Screening starts at menopause if at risk for osteoporosis.
Pelvic Exams: Continue every 3-5 years, depending on history and HPV testing.

Ages 65 and Older

Cervical Cancer: Can be discontinued if Pap smears have been normal for the past 10 years.
Breast Cancer Screening: Continue mammograms every 1-2 years until around age 75.

For Men:

Ages 18-39

Testicular Self-Exams: Monthly self-checks to monitor unusual lumps or changes.
Cholesterol: Begin testing by age 35 if not done earlier.

Ages 40-64

Prostate Cancer Screening: Consider starting discussions with a doctor around age 50, or earlier if high risk (African American men or those with a family history).
Lung Cancer Screening: Low-dose CT scans annually for those aged 50-80 with a significant smoking history.

Ages 65 and Older

Prostate Screening: Continuation based on doctor’s recommendations and individual health.

Vaccinations as Preventative Measures:

Customized Screening Recommendations:

Family history of diseases (e.g., cancer, heart disease).
Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, diet, physical activity).
Pre-existing conditions.
Regular consultations with a healthcare provider ensure screenings are personalized to individual needs, helping to prevent and manage health risks effectively.