Preventive care is one of the highest-value investments you can make in your health. Many of the leading causes of death in adults — including colorectal cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease — have effective screening tests that detect disease in its most treatable stages. Yet most adults are behind on at least one recommended screening. This guide provides a comprehensive, evidence-based checklist of preventive screenings organized by age group.
Ages 18–39: Building a Prevention Foundation
- Blood pressure: at least every 2 years if normal; annually if 130–139/80–89
- Cholesterol: baseline screen by age 20 if risk factors present; by 35 for all men, 45 for all women
- Blood glucose: every 3 years starting at 35 (earlier with risk factors)
- Cervical cancer (women): Pap smear every 3 years starting at 21
- STI screening: annually for sexually active young adults as appropriate
- Depression screening: at each annual visit using PHQ-9
Ages 40–64: Expanding the Screening Portfolio
- Colorectal cancer: colonoscopy every 10 years starting at 45 (or stool tests more frequently)
- Lung cancer CT: annually for adults 50–80 with ≥20 pack-year smoking history
- Diabetes: every 3 years if prediabetes, annually if HbA1c 5.7–6.4%
- Breast cancer: mammogram annually or biennially starting at 40 (discuss individual risk with physician)
- Hypertension and lipids: annual monitoring
- Prostate cancer discussion: men 40–55 with family history or African American heritage
Ages 65 and Older
Senior adults add bone density (DEXA scan at 65 for women, earlier with risk factors), abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound (men 65–75 who have smoked), cognitive health assessment, and expanded vaccine schedule (shingles Shingrix, high-dose flu, RSV vaccine). All prior screenings continue at appropriate intervals or until life expectancy considerations suggest de-escalation.
At Vish Medical, Dr. Arpana Pillay reviews your complete screening history at every annual physical and ensures nothing falls through the cracks. Book your annual wellness exam today to know exactly where you stand.