Check-ups by age: the exams worth doing at each stage
Vigilance is my trade, and prevention is the version you can practice in broad daylight. The right check-up is the searchlight that reveals a problem while it's still small and silent. Here's a general map — your exact map is drawn by your doctor.
Why screen
Many serious diseases — hypertension, diabetes, several cancers — grow without warning. Screening aims to catch them early, when treatment is simpler and more effective. It's not about doing 'every exam,' but the right ones for your age, sex and history.
A general map by stage
- 20s to 30s: blood pressure periodically; weight and habits review; mental health; STIs per your sex life; for women, starting cervical screening in the recommended window.
- 30s to 40s: the above, plus attention to cholesterol and blood glucose, especially with family history or risk factors.
- 40s to 50s: cholesterol and glucose more regularly; cardiovascular risk assessment; women begin breast screening in the recommended window; discuss screening per history.
- 50 and up: colorectal cancer screening begins; keep breast and cervical up to date; attention to prostate (an individual, discussed decision); routine blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol; assess bone density per risk.
- Always: vaccines current, dental health, vision, and an honest conversation about sleep, alcohol, tobacco and mood.
The right way to use this
This is an overview, not a prescription. Start age, frequency and exams change with family history, symptoms and local guidelines. The best preventive exam is a regular appointment with a doctor who knows your story.
A word from the Lair: this content is informational and does not replace medical care. Talk to your doctor to build the screening plan right for your case.
The Knight's Arsenal
Disclosure: the links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them, the Lair earns a commission — at no extra cost to you. More in our affiliate disclosure.
Pure creatine monohydrate
The arsenal's base fuel.
View at storeWhey protein isolate
Protein logistics, solved.
View at storeAdjustable dumbbells
A full armory in one corner.
View at storeResistance band kit
Strength that travels light.
View at storeNon-slip training mat
Solid ground for every mission.
View at store1L stainless steel bottle
Hydration on patrol.
View at storeVigilante, obsessed with human performance. He writes so the City can sleep in peace — and wake up stronger.
From the same sector of the City
Vitamin D: the sun that's missing for those who live at night
Those who work far from the sun need extra attention. What science says about testing, supplementing and not overdoing it.
Back pain: what actually works (and what's a posture myth)
There is no ONE perfect posture. There is capacity, variation and movement. What science actually recommends.
Real hydration: how much water you need (and the role of electrolytes)
Drinking water is simple — but almost everything you were told about 'liters per day' is a guess wrapped in marketing.