Your Guide to Preventive Health Screenings by Age
North Memorial Health Clinic - Camden
North Memorial Health Internal Medicine – Maple Grove
Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to maintain long-term health and catch potential issues early. Whether you’re in your 20s or well into your 70s, routine screenings and check-ups can help identify risks before they become serious problems.
From managing blood pressure and cholesterol to screening for cancer, depression, and age-related conditions, knowing what to expect at each stage of life empowers you to take charge of your health. This guide outlines key preventive screenings by age group, helping you stay informed and prepared for every decade.
General preventive cares
See your health care professional every 3-5 years for a preventive health exam between the ages 18-35, then once a year if you are over 40 years old. Keep your vaccinations up to date throughout all ages and stages of life. Speak with your doctor about what you need to stay protected. Recommendations may vary slightly depending on individual risk factors, family history, and local guidelines.
Things that your provider may screen for at your preventative exam include:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Blood sugar
- Depression
You may also need additional screenings based on age. Below are typical screenings and assessments for average risk individuals
Ages 18–39
- Cervical cancer: Pap smear every 3 years starting at age 21 to 29, then every 5 years from 30–65 using HPV based testing
- Sexually transmitted infections: Interval and extent of screening is based on risk
- Hepatitis C: One-time screening in adulthood
Ages 40–49
Additional screenings:
- Breast cancer screening: Mammogram every 1-2 years starting at age 40 for average-risk patients. Earlier and more intensive screening may be needed for high-risk patients.
- Colorectal cancer: Begin screening at age 45, interval depends on type of screening and individual risk factors
Ages 50–64
Additional screenings:
- Lung cancer: Annual low-dose CT scan starting at 50 based on smoking history
- Prostate cancer: Discuss benefits and risks of screening with your provider starting at age 55
Ages 65+
Additional screenings:
- Osteoporosis: Bone density test for women 65+, men based on risk
- Cognitive screening: As part of Medicare Annual Wellness Visit
- Fall risk assessment: Annually
- Balance and gait evaluation: With increasing age or history of falls
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Abdominal aortic aneurysm: Men aged 65-75 who have ever smoked should have a one-time screening with abdominal ultrasound