Preventive Health Screenings: Essential Tests for Every Age
Regular preventive screenings are your best defense against serious health conditions. These tests can detect potential problems before symptoms appear, when they're most treatable. At Lyons Primary Care Group, we recommend evidence-based screenings tailored to your:
Age and gender
Family medical history
Lifestyle factors
Existing health conditions
Key benefits of preventive screenings:
✔ Early detection of chronic diseases
✔ More effective treatment options
✔ Lower healthcare costs long-term
✔ Personalized prevention strategies
Comprehensive Screening Guide by Age Group
🟢 Ages 18-39: Building a Healthy Foundation
Recommended screenings for young adults:
Blood pressure: Every 6 months to a year
Cholesterol: Once a year
Diabetes: Once a year
STI testing: At least once a year
Depression screening: At least once a year
Prevention tip: This is the ideal time to establish healthy habits and baseline measurements.
🔗 Learn about young adult wellness visits
🟡 Ages 40-49: Monitoring Key Health Markers
Added screenings for middle age:
Colon cancer: Starting at 45 (earlier if high risk)
Breast cancer (mammogram): (Women 40+, earlier if high risk)
Prostate exam: Men 45+ (earlier if high-risk)
Lipid panel: Once a year
Diabetes screening: Once a year
Eye exam: Once a year
Prevention tip: Pay special attention to heart health and cancer risks during this decade.
🔗 Explore our cancer screening options
🔴 Ages 50-64: Critical Prevention Years
Expanded screenings for older adults:
Colonoscopy: Every 10 years (more often, if needed)
Lung cancer screening: Smokers 50+
Bone density scan: Women 65+ (earlier if high-risk)
Hepatitis C: One-time test
Abdominal aortic aneurysm: Men 65+ who smoked
Hearing test: Baseline at 50
Prevention tip: This is when many chronic conditions first appear - regular monitoring is essential.
🔗 View our senior health services
Screenings Based on Specific Risk Factors
Your personalized screening plan may include additional tests if you have:
Family history of cancer, heart disease, or diabetes
Smoking history (lung cancer screening)
Obesity (more frequent metabolic testing)
High-risk occupation or lifestyle factors
💡 Our providers create customized prevention plans based on your unique health profile.
What to Expect During Preventive Screenings
Pre-Visit Preparation
Fasting instructions for blood work
Medication guidelines
Health history review
During Your Appointment
Physical examination
Vital signs check
Discussion of results
Follow-Up Plan
Frequency of future screenings
Lifestyle recommendations
Specialist referrals if needed