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Prevention

Your annual health check: what to expect at every age

Which screenings and tests are worth doing in your 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond, and how to prepare for your check-up.

Published Updated 10 min read

In this article
  1. 01In your 20s and 30s
  2. 02In your 40s and 50s
  3. 03At 60 and beyond

Preventive check-ups find problems early, when they are easiest to treat. What's recommended depends on your age, sex, family history and where you live, so treat this guide as a starting point for a conversation with your doctor.

In your 20s and 30s

  • Blood pressure check at least every few years.
  • Cervical screening as advised in your country.
  • Sexual health screening if relevant.
  • Mental health and lifestyle check-in.
  • Up-to-date vaccinations.

In your 40s and 50s

  • Cholesterol and diabetes screening.
  • Breast screening as advised.
  • Bowel cancer screening from the recommended age.
  • Eye tests and skin checks.

At 60 and beyond

Screening for bone health, hearing, vision and memory becomes more important, as do vaccines such as flu, pneumococcal and shingles. A yearly medication review is also a good idea.

Sources

  1. [1]U.S. Preventive Services Task Force: Recommendations(opens in a new tab)
  2. [2]NHS: Health checks(opens in a new tab)
Portrait of Dr. Amara Okafor

About the author

Dr. Amara Okafor

Family Physician · MBBS, MRCGP · 14 years' experience

Dr. Okafor has spent fourteen years in family medicine across London and Lagos. She believes the best care comes from listening first, and is known for explaining health decisions in plain, reassuring language. Her clinical interests include preventive health, blood pressure and caring for whole families across generations.

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