Early diagnosis is the best way to either prevent long-term conditions or treat diseases successfully. However, women often forget to go regular checks done, out of a lack of knowledge or time.
Here, based on consultation with doctors, we bring to you a list of health tests that need to be done at different ages.
*It's always advisable to consult with a general physician before you start on your screening journey. Do consult with the doctor immediately, if you already have any disturbing health symptoms.*
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This information has been verified by Dr. Wahida Suresh, Dr. Vinisha Abhale and Dr. Jayashree Gopal
In the 20s and earlier
Young girls should be vaccinated against HPV (with a doctor's recommendation). If women are sexually active, regular STI screening and contraceptive counseling is also recommended.
For women in their 20s, annual pelvic exams and checkups with a gynaecologist which include a clinical breast exam should be done. Additionally, iron, vitamin B12, and D can be tested. Women ages 21–29 should be screened for cervical cancer with PAP smears and HPV tests every three years (depending on the country you live).
In your 30s
Annual check-ups
Gynecological and Pelvic exam
Blood test to check Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D levels
Complete blood work including
Thyroid levels
Cholesterol levels
Blood sugar
Yearly dental check-ups
Update vaccinations ( if needed)
Breast cancer screening (if available)
Every month
Breast self-exam- same time every month (3-5 days after your period).
Every 2-3 years (or as recommended by the doctor)
Cervical cancer screening: PAP smears and HPV test.
Eye check-up.
In your 40s
Annual check-ups
All tests as done in the 30s
+
Complete Breast Examination by a GP/Gynaecologist +
Mammograms after 45 (a week before periods)
Coronary screening
Blood pressure
Check Vitamin D, Serum calcium, Parathyroid, and other hormone tests
Bone densitometry for Osteoporosis prevention
Comprehensive blood work for yearly diabetes and metabolic screening including
Complete blood count
Blood sugar - fasting sugar + HbA1c
Liver function test
Lipid profile (with triglycerides, HDL and LDL)
Uric acid
CRP/ HsCRP
This is recommended due to the onset of hormonal fluctuations and aging processes in multiple organ systems. It is best to consult a physician or an endocrinologist (hormone specialist) with your reports.
(In Europe, check out this at-home Osteoporosis test)
In your 50s
Everything in the 40s +
Every 2-3 years
Colon cancer screening
Ovarian cancer screening
Above 65
PAP smears can stop at this stage for women with a history of negative results.
Annual check-ups
Regular blood work
Hearing and Vision tests
Cognition test
Update vaccinations
Check out our webinar with Dr. Wahida Suresh talks about health check-ups, contraception, healthy aging and much more.
Source: Medline Plus, WebMD
Take control of your health, start with symptom management programs,
Disclaimer: This is an approximate timeline. The frequency of these tests depends greatly on your family history and your personal health risks. Talk to your doctor to make a plan about what medical tests are important for you.
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