Health screenings are a critical tool for regular care. They can help find health problems early, before they get bigger or harder to treat. The screenings you need depend on your age, your health history, and your family history.
Many screenings start at certain ages. Others depend on your personal risk. A quick talk with your primary care physician can help you figure out what screenings should be done now and what can wait.
Common screenings by age
Here are a few examples of when some screenings may begin for many adults:
- Age 21 and up: Cervical cancer screening starts at age 21 for people with a cervix. How often you need it depends on your age and the type of test.
- Age 35 and up for many men, age 45 and up for many women: Cholesterol screening may start at these ages, or earlier if you have heart disease risk factors.
- Age 40 and up for many women: Breast cancer screening often begins around age 40 for women at average risk.
- Age 45 and up: Colorectal cancer screening starts at age 45 for many adults.
- Ages 50 to 80 for some adults: Lung cancer screening may be recommended for people with a long smoking history.
- Age 65 and up for many women: Bone density screening may begin at age 65 to check for osteoporosis, which means weak bones.
- Ages 65 to 75 for some men who have ever smoked: A one-time screening may be recommended to check for abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a bulge in a large blood vessel. This is a life-threatening issue and early detection is important.
Screenings many adults may need 
Some screenings are not tied to one age alone. Blood pressure checks are important for adults of all ages. Many adults should also get screened for hepatitis C at least once. HIV screening is also recommended at least once for many people.
Your care plan may be different
Not everyone needs the same tests on the same schedule. You may need screening earlier or more often if you have a family history of disease, past test results that need follow-up, or other health risks. Your care team can help you decide what is right for you.
What to do next
If you are not sure what screenings you may need, ask at your next visit or call your specific CHC location.