Recommended Screenings: Which Tests Do You Need?

Regular health screenings play a vital role in preventive healthcare. Depending on your age, gender, and individual risk factors, certain screenings are recommended to catch potential health issues early when they are often more treatable. Here are some common recommended screenings by age group and gender:

Men:

Age 20-39:

- Blood pressure check: Every 2 years

- Cholesterol check: Every 5 years

- Dental checkup: Every 6 months to a year

- Eye exam: Every 1-2 years

- Testicular self-exam: Monthly

- Skin self-exam: Regularly

Age 40-49:

- Repeat the above screenings more frequently

- Prostate cancer screening (PSA test or DRE): Consult your doctor about when to start

- Colon cancer screening (colonoscopy or stool tests): Start at age 45

Age 50 and older:

- Continue the above screenings

- Bone density test (for osteoporosis): Every 2 years for men over 70 or those at high risk

- Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening (for men with certain risk factors): Every few years

Women:

Age 20-39:

- Blood pressure check: Every 2 years

- Cholesterol check: Every 5 years

- Dental checkup: Every 6 months to a year

- Eye exam: Every 1-2 years

- Breast self-exam: Monthly

- Pelvic exam and Pap smear: Every 3 years (or as recommended by your doctor)

- Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening: Consider based on sexual activity

Age 40-49:

- Repeat the above screenings more frequently

- Mammogram (breast cancer screening): Starting at age 40 or earlier for high-risk women

- Colon cancer screening: Start at age 45

Age 50 and older:

- Continue the above screenings

- Bone density test (for osteoporosis): Every 2 years for women over 65 or those at high risk

- Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening (for women with certain risk factors)

It's important to note that these are general recommendations, and your individual needs may vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider to discuss which screenings are right for you based on your overall health and family history.