Recommended Health Screenings by Age and Gender
Men and women ages 18-39 should be screened annually for the following:
- weight and height
- blood pressure
- cholesterol (only if there are known issues, otherwise every 5 years)
- skin lesions and moles that look suspicious
- diabetes
- immunizations
- depression
- blood work
- any other health problems that are prominent in your family
Extra Screenings for Women Ages 18-39
- cervical cancer (pap smear every 3 years)
- breast exam at home once a month and by a clinical provider once a year
Extra Screenings for Men Ages 18-39
- testicular exam (self-exams can be done as well)
Men and women ages 40 to 64 should be screened for the following:
- shingles vaccine – two doses separated by 2-6 months after the age of 50
- flu shot – annually
- colorectal screening – after age 50 unless other problems are present
- colonoscopy – may be needed based on medical history
- osteoporosis – after age 50 with risk factors
- lung cancer – annually if a past smoker
- mental health assessment
Extra Screenings for Women Ages 40 to 64
- annual blood work
- mammogram – annually or bi-annually based on risk factors
- pelvic exam - every 3 years unless issues are present
Extra Screenings for Men Ages 40 to 64
- prostate exam – after age 50 unless problems are present
Men and Women 65 and older should be screened annually for the following:
- colorectal cancer – baseline test if not done previously and continued tests based on results
- height and weight – increased importance after 65 as shrinking can be a sign of osteoporosis
- fall prevention – baseline and then screening as needed
- mental health assessment
- high dose flu vaccine
Extra Screenings for Women Age 65 and Older
- cervical cancer
- osteoporosis – baseline screening and additional screening based on results
Extra Screenings for Men Age 65 and Older
- prostate – annually
- osteoporosis – every 5 years after baseline is established