Health
11 Essential Health Screenings for Adults
Health Points
- Routine screenings can catch health issues early and improve outcomes.
- Blood tests and physical exams are common tools in early detection.
- Many screenings are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance.
Proactive health screenings empower you to take control of your wellbeing. Early detection increases your options and helps prevent complications from chronic or serious conditions.
Adults should prioritize regular check-ins for cholesterol and blood pressure, as these assessments are fast, usually painless, and often covered by insurance.
Cholesterol testing every 4-6 years is recommended for most adults to monitor heart health and address any risk factors quickly.
Regular blood pressure checks are crucial, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms but can increase the likelihood of heart disease if left unchecked.
Those at higher risk for diabetes, such as individuals over 45 or with a family history, should consider periodic blood sugar tests to stay ahead of potential issues.
Mental health screenings, now more commonly part of annual checkups, help detect anxiety and depression early, supporting a more holistic approach to wellness.
Cancer screenings, such as mammograms and cervical cancer tests, are vital for detecting issues before symptoms arise, which can make treatments more effective and less invasive.
People assigned female at birth should plan for regular mammograms starting at age 40 and discuss HPV or Pap testing for cervical health with their provider according to age and risk factors.
“Health screenings offer peace of mind and can make a real difference in long-term wellbeing.”
Stay ahead of your health this year by scheduling recommended screenings and talking to your provider about a personalized plan.