Preventive Screenings by Age: A Full Breakdown
Preventive screening recommendations change fairly predictably as you move through different decades of life.
Your 20s and 30s
Baseline blood pressure and cholesterol checks, dental cleanings, skin checks, and Pap smears (women, starting at 21).
Your 40s and 50s
Mammograms typically start, colonoscopy baseline begins around 45, and diabetes screening becomes more common.
Your 60s and beyond
Bone density scans, hearing tests, and more frequent cardiovascular screening are typically added.
Key takeawayScreening needs shift by decade — establishing a baseline early and adding new screenings on schedule catches most serious conditions at their most treatable stage.
Helpful next steps
Blood pressure monitor
Track your numbers between checkups.
This content is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice from your doctor.