In our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook routine medical check-ups, especially when we feel perfectly fine. However, many serious health conditions develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. For this reason, regular health screenings are paramount. They can detect potential problems before they escalate, often leading to more effective, less invasive treatments and significantly better long-term outcomes.
How do you know which tests are most important? Below, we break down the different types of preventative health screenings for adults so that you can make plans for when, and if, you should complete each one.
Comprehensive Blood Tests
A small sample of blood can provide a wealth of information about your physiological state. To detect the earliest signs of many conditions, your doctor may conduct a CBC, lipid panel, or CMP test.
A complete blood count (CBC) assesses the health of your red and white blood cells and platelets, helping to detect issues like anemia, infection, or certain cancers. A lipid panel measures cholesterol and triglycerides, which are critical indicators of cardiovascular risk. Finally, a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) evaluates your kidney and liver function, blood sugar levels, and electrolyte balance. Because these tests provide such a broad overview, they are typically recommended annually for most adults as part of a routine physical examination.
Ultrasounds for Testes and Ovaries
Ultrasound imaging, which uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body, is a safe and non-invasive way to examine certain organs. For individuals with testes, a testicular ultrasound can be used to evaluate lumps or pain and is a key tool in investigating potential issues, including cancer.
For individuals with ovaries, a transvaginal ultrasound provides a detailed view of the ovaries and uterus. This type of screening may be recommended for those with a strong family history of certain cancers or for individuals experiencing specific symptoms. A healthcare provider can best assess an individual’s risk profile to determine if this screening is appropriate.
Mammograms
A mammogram is a specialized X-ray of the breast tissue and is the most effective screening tool for detecting breast cancer in its early, most treatable stages. Guidelines generally recommend that individuals with breast tissue begin regular mammogram screenings starting at age 40, with screenings occurring every one to two years. Of course, this schedule can vary based on personal and family medical history.
Those with a higher risk, such as a known genetic mutation or a strong family history of breast cancer, may be advised to begin these preventative health screenings earlier and potentially supplement them with other imaging tests, like a breast MRI.
Colonoscopies
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, primarily due to the effectiveness of colorectal cancer screenings. During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire length of the colon and rectum. Not only can a colonoscopy detect cancer, but it can also find and remove precancerous polyps before they have a chance to develop further.
The standard recommendation is for adults of average risk to get their first colonoscopy at age 45. Depending on the findings, a follow-up test may be needed in 10 years, or sooner if polyps are found or if the individual has other risk factors like a history of inflammatory bowel disease or a family history of colon cancer.
Diabetes Screenings
Type 2 diabetes is a prevalent condition that can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, kidney failure, and nerve damage. The alarming part is that it often develops without any symptoms. A simple blood test, such as a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test or an A1C test, can measure your blood sugar levels to determine if you have diabetes or prediabetes.
The American Diabetes Association recommends that screening for most adults begin at age 35. If the results are normal, screenings should be repeated at least every three years. More frequent testing may be recommended for individuals with risk factors like being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or having high blood pressure.
Electrocardiograms (ECG)
An electrocardiogram is a quick, painless test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It can help detect various heart conditions, including irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), poor blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia), and signs of a previous heart attack.
While an ECG isn’t always a routine screening for every adult, it is often recommended for those with risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, or a family history of heart problems. Your doctor might suggest a baseline ECG around age 40 to have a recording to compare against in the future should any symptoms arise that point to a cardiovascular disease.
Low-Dose CT Chest Scans
A low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan of the chest is recommended as part of the lung cancer screening process. This screening is advised for adults between the ages of 50 and 80 who have a significant smoking history (defined as a 20 pack-year history or more) and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. For this group, an annual LDCT scan has been shown to reduce the risk of dying from lung cancer by finding it at an earlier, more manageable stage.
Bone Density Scans
As we age, our bones can lose density, becoming weaker and more susceptible to fractures. This condition, known as osteoporosis, often progresses without symptoms until a bone breaks. A CT scan can measure bone mineral density to diagnose osteoporosis. Screening is generally recommended for all people aged 65 and older. However, for those with specific risk factors, such as a history of fractures, long-term steroid use, or certain medical conditions, it may be recommended to have these adult health screenings completed much earlier.
Ultrasound Thyroid Tests
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that plays a massive role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and mood. Thyroid nodules, or lumps within the gland, are common, and while most are benign, some can be cancerous. A thyroid ultrasound is typically ordered when a physical examination reveals a lump or abnormality in the neck area or if blood tests indicate that the thyroid is overactive or underactive. If you have a family history of thyroid cancer or have had radiation therapy to the head or neck, your doctor may suggest more vigilant monitoring.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Screening
While some forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, persistent issues with memory, thinking, and problem-solving could be signs of dementia. As you age, your doctor may recommend detailed neuropsychological testing to comprehensively assess cognitive strengths and weaknesses, interviews with family members to understand changes in personality and behavior, and a full medical workup. This workup involves blood tests and a physical exam to rule out other treatable conditions that can mimic dementia symptoms, such as thyroid problems or vitamin deficiencies. Brain imaging, like an MRI or CT scan, may also be used to identify tumors, evidence of strokes, or other structural changes.
Early assessment is key, as it allows for an accurate diagnosis, provides access to support and resources, and helps families plan for the future.
Schedule a Preventative Health Screening at Spectrum Health
If you have a concern about your health or are at a greater risk of a specific disease, we can help you monitor your health with tests conducted within the comfort of our Philadelphia offices. We’ll provide comprehensive care and empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain your health for a lifetime. Contact us today to book an appointment with an adult healthcare professional.