Getting regular check-ups and preventive screening tests are among the most important things you can do for
yourself. Take time to review these guidelines for screening tests. Use the charts below to remind yourself of
when you need to see your healthcare provider based on your personal health profile. Make an appointment
today! Then, become a partner with your healthcare provider to decide when you need your screenings. Share
your family history, speak up, voice your concerns, and always ask questions. For instance, if your healthcare
provider asks you to increase the amount you exercise, ask for examples of exercises that are best for you. If you
are confused about how to do a monthly breast self-exam, ask and practice until you understand and feel
comfortable doing it. If you are wondering if you need certain screenings, ask your healthcare provider. This
chart lists recommended screenings for women at average risk for most diseases. These are guidelines
only. Your healthcare provider will personalize the timing of each test to best meet your healthcare needs.
Screening
Tests |
Ages 18-39 |
Ages 40-49 |
Ages 50-64 |
Ages 65+ |
Full check up, including weight and height |
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Blood pressure test |
Start at age 21, then once every 1-2 years if normal |
Every 1-2 years |
Every 1-2 years |
Every 1-2 years |
Cholesterol test |
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Start at age 45, then every 5 years |
Every 5 years |
Every 5 years |
Bone mineral density test |
|
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Get a bone density test at least once. Talk to your health care provider about repeat testing. |
Blood sugar test |
Discuss with your health care provider. |
Start at age 45, then every 3 years |
Every 3 years |
Every 3 years |
Pap test & Pelvic exam |
Every 1-3 years if you have been sexually active or are over 21 |
Every 1-3 years
(depending on method) |
Every 1-3 years
(depending on method) |
Every 1-3 years.
After age 70, discuss with your healthcare provider. |
Clinical breast exam |
Start at age 20, then every three years until age 40 |
Yearly |
Yearly |
Yearly |
Mammogram
(x-ray of breast) |
|
Every 1-2 years. Discuss with your health care provider. |
Every 1-2 years. Discuss with your health care provider. |
Every 1-2 years. Discuss with your health care provider. |
For colorectal screening, you need to have one of the following tests: |
Fecal Occult Blood Test |
|
|
Yearly |
Yearly |
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy (with annual fecal occult blood test is preferred) |
|
|
Every 5 years |
Every 5 years |
Double Contrast Barium Enema (DCBE) |
|
|
Every 5-10 years
(if not having colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy) |
Every 5-10 years
(if not having colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy) |
Colonoscopy |
|
|
Every 10 years |
Every 10 years |
