Recommended preventive care
A plain-language guide to common adult screenings - what they are and how often they're usually recommended.
These are general guidelines. Your provider tailors them to your age, history, and prior results.
Am I due for a screening?
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This is a general guide, not medical advice. Your provider confirms what's right for you.
Annual wellness & preventive visits Every year
A yearly visit to review your overall health. Often includes a medication review, a talk about which screenings you may need, and a simple wellness plan.
Usually for: Most adults. Medicare patients may qualify for an Annual Wellness Visit.
Cervical cancer screening Every 3-5 yrs
Finds abnormal cell changes early, often before cancer starts. May include a Pap test, an HPV test, or both.
Usually for: Women roughly ages 21-65. How often depends on the test and your past results.
Mammogram (breast cancer) Every 1-2 yrs
A quick, low-dose X-ray that looks for breast cancer before you can feel anything.
Usually for: Women, usually starting around age 40 - earlier if you have a family history.
Colorectal cancer screening Varies
Finds and can even help prevent colon cancer by catching changes early. Options include a colonoscopy or an easy at-home stool test (FIT or Cologuard).
Usually for: Adults, usually starting around age 45. How often depends on the test you choose.
Cholesterol / lipid test Every few yrs
A simple blood test that checks your heart and blood-vessel health.
Usually for: Adults, starting in early adulthood and continuing through life.
Bone density (DEXA) scan Later in life
Checks bone strength and your risk of fractures from osteoporosis.
Usually for: Usually women 65 and older. How often depends on your results.
Not sure what applies to you?
Give us a call - we'll confirm what's recommended and book it.