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