Recommended Screenings by Age
At any age, there are certain checkups, tests and screenings that are recommended for optimal health. Whether it’s a physical exam, cholesterol check or colonoscopy screening, these things can detect issues before they become serious concerns.
AGE 18-39
Blood Pressure Screening
Cholesterol Screening
- Every five years
- Especially men over 34
Immunizations
- Tetanus-diphtheria every 10 years
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MEN
Testicular Exam
- Monthly testicular self-exam
WOMEN
Breast Exam
- Monthly breast self-exam
- A complete breast exam every three years (age 20-40)
Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear
- Pelvic exam and Pap smear every one to two years, starting by the age of 21
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AGE 40-65
Blood Pressure Screening
Cholesterol Screening
- Men over 34 and women over
44 should be checked every five years
Colon Cancer Screening
- Every 10 years between age 50 and 80
Immunizations
- Flu vaccine every year after the age of 50
- Tetanus-diphtheria vaccine every 10 years
Physical Exam
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MEN
Prostate Exam
- Over 50–should consider screenings
- If you have a family history of prostate cancer, begin screenings at age 45
Osteoporosis Screening
- Age 50-70 should discuss getting screened with their doctor
WOMEN
Breast Exams and Mammograms
- Monthly breast self-exam
- Women over age 40 should have a mammogram done every one to two years
Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear
- Pelvic exam and Pap smear every one to two years
Osteoporosis Screening
- All postmenopausal women should have a bone density test, or DXA scan
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AGE 65 and Older
Blood Pressure Screening
Cholesterol Screening
- Every three to five years
Colon Cancer Screening
- Colonoscopy every 10 years Immunizations
- Over 65–get a pneumococcal vaccine if you have not had one before or if you received one more than five years before the age of 65
- Flu shot every year
- Tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years
- Shingles vaccine may be given once after age 60
Physical Exam
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MEN Prostate Exam
- All men should discuss prostate screenings with their doctor
Osteoporosis Screening
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
- Ages 65-75 who have smoked–have an ultrasound done once to screen for abdominal aneurysms
WOMEN
Breast Exams and Mammograms
- Monthly breast self-exam
- Mammogram every one to two years
Osteoporosis Screening
- All women should have a DXA scan done
Pelvic Exam and Pap smear
- Pelvic exam and Pap smear every year
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