Men's and
Women's Health: Key Screenings at Every Age
Preventative healthcare is vital for maintaining long-term
wellness and catching potential health issues early. Regular health screenings
can provide a snapshot of your overall health and help you stay proactive at
every stage of life. Below, we’ve outlined essential health screenings for men
and women, broken down by age groups.
In Your
20s and 30s: Building a Foundation for Health
For Men and Women
- Blood
Pressure: Check at least once every two years, or annually if you have
risk factors for hypertension.
- Cholesterol:
A baseline cholesterol screening is recommended in your 20s, with
follow-ups every 4-6 years, depending on your results.
- Skin
Checks: Perform regular self-examinations and consult a dermatologist
if you notice any suspicious moles or changes in your skin.
- Sexual
Health: Regular STI screenings based on your sexual activity and risk
factors.
Women-Specific Screenings
- Cervical
Smear Tests: Begin at age 25, with screenings every 3-5 years.
- Breast
Awareness: Learn how to perform self-examinations and report any
changes to your GP.
Men-Specific Screenings
- Testicular
Health: Perform self-examinations regularly to check for lumps or
abnormalities.
In Your
40s: Staying Ahead of Chronic Conditions
For Men and Women
- Blood
Glucose Levels: Begin screenings for type 2 diabetes every 3 years, or
earlier if you have risk factors such as obesity or a family history of
diabetes.
- Eye
Health: Schedule a comprehensive eye exam every 2-4 years, or more
frequently if you have vision issues or conditions like diabetes.
- Mental Health: Regular check-ins with your GP to monitor for anxiety, depression, or stress-related conditions.
Women-Specific Screenings
- Breast
Screening: Mammograms may begin in your late 40s, depending on your
family history.
- Bone
Health: Start assessing your risk for osteoporosis, especially if you
have risk factors.
Men-Specific Screenings
- Prostate
Health: Discuss prostate screening with your doctor if you have a
family history.
In Your
50s and Beyond: Prioritising Longevity and Quality of Life
For Men and Women
- Colorectal
Cancer Screening: Begin regular screenings, such as a colonoscopy, at
age 50.
- Hearing
Tests: Hearing loss becomes more common with age, so consider a
baseline test and regular check-ups.
- Vaccinations:
Ensure you’re up to date with vaccinations such as flu, pneumonia, and
shingles.
Women-Specific Screenings
- Breast
Screening: Continue regular mammograms every 1-2 years.
- Bone
Density Test: A bone density scan may be recommended to monitor for
osteoporosis.
Men-Specific Screenings
- Prostate
Screening: Continue discussions with your GP about the benefits and
risks of regular PSA tests.
Tips for
All Ages
- Maintain
a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress
management can reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
- Stay
Informed: Health recommendations evolve, so stay updated with advice
from your GP or trusted health organisations.
- Personalise
Your Plan: Screening schedules may vary based on personal or family
medical history. Discuss with your GP to tailor your health plan.
Taking charge of your health through regular screenings is
an investment in your future. By understanding the screenings appropriate for
your age group, you can ensure you’re one step ahead in maintaining a healthy,
fulfilling life.
Schedule your screenings today—your future self will thank
you!