Preventive care is the most powerful tool in medicine. Here's what you should be getting tested for at every age.
Prevention is the most effective and cost-efficient form of medicine. Yet most adults don't know which screenings they need, or when. Here's a practical guide based on current clinical guidelines.
**Everyone (18+):**
- Blood pressure: Every visit or at least annually
- BMI and weight: Annually
- Cholesterol: Every 4-6 years starting at 20 (more often if at risk)
- Depression screening: Annually
- Diabetes screening: Starting at 35, or earlier if overweight
**Women:**
- Pap smear: Every 3 years ages 21-65 (or every 5 years with HPV co-test)
- Mammogram: Annually starting at 40-45 (discuss with your doctor)
- Bone density (DEXA): Starting at 65, or earlier if at risk
**Men:**
- PSA prostate screening: Discuss with doctor starting at 50 (45 if high risk)
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound: Once at age 65-75 if you've ever smoked
**Everyone 45+:**
- Colorectal cancer screening (colonoscopy or stool test)
- Lung cancer screening if you're a current/former heavy smoker
Most cancers and chronic diseases are far more treatable — and often curable — when caught early. Screenings save lives.
