Preventive Health Screenings

Preventive health screenings are routine medical tests performed before any symptoms appear. These include blood pressure checks, cholesterol panels, cancer screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies, and immunizations. The goal is straightforward: catch health problems early—often years before serious disease develops—when treatment is simpler, less invasive, and more effective.

Regular preventive screenings can prevent heart attacks, strokes, advanced cancers, and complications from infections that might otherwise go undetected. In the U.S., many evidence-based screenings graded A or B by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) are covered with no copay under the Affordable Care Act when you use an in-network provider. However, you may have to pay out of pocket for certain preventive services if they are not covered by your insurance or if you visit an out-of-network provider.

Consider this example: a 52-year-old schedules a routine colonoscopy as recommended. During the procedure, the doctor finds and removes a precancerous polyp. That simple screening just prevented what could have become colon cancer years down the road.

Why preventive health screenings matter:

• They detect silent conditions like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and early-stage cancers before symptoms appear

• Early detection typically means less aggressive treatment and better outcomes

• Screenings are a key part of prevention, including vaccinations, screenings, and counseling to proactively reduce the risk of diseases and health issues

• Screenings can identify risk factors that allow you to make lifestyle changes before disease develops

• Many screenings are fully covered by most health plans at no cost to you

• Regular screening reduces emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and long-term health care costs

What Counts as Preventive Health Screening (vs. Diagnostic Tests)

Preventive screenings are tests done at recommended ages or intervals when you feel well, designed to find risk factors or early disease before you notice anything wrong. These are scheduled proactively based on guidelines—not because you’re experiencing symptoms.

Diagnostic tests, on the other hand, are ordered to investigate specific symptoms or follow up on an abnormal screening result. The distinction matters because insurance coverage often depends on whether the visit and testing are billed as preventive or diagnostic care.

Examples of preventive screenings:

• Blood pressure check at your annual wellness visit

• Fasting lipid panel to assess cholesterol levels

• HbA1c test to screen for diabetes or prediabetes risk

• Mammogram for breast cancer screening at recommended intervals

• Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer screening starting around age 45

• Pap and HPV tests for cervical cancer screening

Examples of diagnostic tests:

• Follow-up ultrasound or biopsy after finding a breast lump

• CT scan ordered to evaluate chest pain or shortness of breath

• Repeat mammogram after an abnormal screening result

• Colonoscopy to investigate rectal bleeding or unexplained weight loss

Before your appointment, contact your health plan to confirm whether your scheduled services are considered preventive care. This helps you avoid unexpected charges if part of your visit shifts to a problem-focused evaluation. It's also important to make sure your provider is in your plan's network, as using in-network providers maximizes your coverage and minimizes out-of-pocket costs for preventive care.

Why Preventive Screenings Are So Important

Preventive health screenings reduce deaths and complications from chronic diseases—including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes—while lowering long-term health care costs. Finding health conditions early, when they’re most treatable, is consistently more effective and less expensive than treating advanced disease.

Many life-threatening conditions develop silently. High blood pressure causes no symptoms while damaging blood vessels. Elevated LDL cholesterol quietly increases heart attack risk. Early cervical cell changes and colorectal polyps produce no warning signs. Screenings reveal these hidden problems when intervention can make the biggest difference.

Key benefits of staying current on screenings:

• Regular colorectal cancer screening for adults aged 45-75 significantly reduces colon cancer deaths, and removing polyps during screening can prevent cancer entirely

• Blood pressure monitoring and control lowers stroke and heart attack risk substantially

• Cervical cancer detected through screening has cure rates exceeding 90 percent when caught early

• People with family history of breast cancer, colon cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or osteoporosis can benefit from earlier or more frequent monitoring

• Fewer emergency room visits and hospitalizations mean less missed work and lower out-of-pocket costs

• Early detection gives you time to plan lifestyle changes—diet, physical activity, weight management—before conditions progress

Core Adult Preventive Screenings by Age Group

Screening recommendations differ based on age, sex, and individual risk factors. The guidance below applies to generally healthy adults and is based primarily on USPSTF and CDC recommendations as of 2024. Your primary care provider may recommend adjustments based on your personal health history.

For adults 18-39:

• Blood pressure screening at least every 3-5 years if readings are normal; more frequently if elevated or if you have risk factors

• Body mass index calculation and obesity assessment at routine visits

• Depression screening, particularly for those with significant stressors or history of mood disorders

• Cervical cancer screening with Pap test every 3 years for women starting at age 21

• STI screening for sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, annually for sexually active women under 25 and anyone with risk factors

• Vision exam every 2 years and dental exam every 6-12 months

For adults 40-64:

• Blood pressure check at least annually, more often if readings are elevated

• Cholesterol and lipid panel testing, with frequency based on prior results and cardiovascular risk factors

• Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes screening with fasting glucose or HbA1c for adults with overweight or obesity, typically starting around age 35-40

• Mammograms for women generally starting between ages 40-50, with timing and frequency guided by shared decision-making with your doctor

• Colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45, with options including colonoscopy every 10 years or stool-based tests at more frequent intervals

• Lung cancer screening with annual low dose computed tomography for high risk adults aged 50-80 with significant smoking history

For adults 65 and older:

• Continued cancer screenings (breast, colorectal) based on health status and life expectancy

• Osteoporosis screening via DEXA scan for women 65 and older, and for younger women with elevated risk

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound once for men aged 65-75 who have ever smoked

• Fall-risk assessment and cognitive screening discussions at annual check ups

• Vision and hearing exams more frequently based on symptoms and prior findings

• Annual wellness visits for Medicare beneficiaries, which include review of all preventive services

People at higher risk—those with strong family history, smokers, people with obesity, hypertension, or diabetes—may need earlier or more frequent screening than standard age cutoffs suggest.

Cancer Screenings You Should Know About

Cancer screening focuses on finding cancer or precancerous changes before symptoms develop. Not everyone needs every test—your age, sex, and risk factors guide which screenings apply to you.

Breast cancer:

• Average-risk women should discuss mammography starting in their 40s, with screening frequency (annually or every 2 years) guided by shared decision-making

• Women with very high risk (strong family history, BRCA mutations) may benefit from earlier screening and additional imaging such as MRI

• Screening typically continues through age 74 for women in good health

Cervical cancer:

• Pap test every 3 years for women ages 21-29

• For ages 30-65, options include Pap test alone every 3 years, primary HPV testing every 5 years, or Pap/HPV co-testing every 5 years

• Most women can stop cervical cancer screening after age 65 if prior results have been consistently normal

Colorectal cancer:

• Screening begins at about age 45 for most adults and continues through age 75

• Options include colonoscopy every 10 years, FIT (fecal immunochemical test) yearly, stool DNA testing every 1-3 years, or flexible sigmoidoscopy

• People with strong family history of colon cancer or certain genetic syndromes may need to start screening earlier and undergo more frequent colonoscopies

Lung cancer:

• Annual low-dose CT screening is recommended for adults aged 50-80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years

• Quitting smoking remains the single most important step to reduce lung cancer risk

• Screening should stop once a person has not smoked for 15 years or develops a health condition that limits life expectancy or ability to have lung surgery

Prostate and other cancers:

• Prostate cancer PSA screening is based on shared decision-making, typically discussed with men starting around age 50 (or earlier for Black men and those with family history)

• Skin cancer screening through regular skin self-exams and dermatology evaluation is recommended for people with risk factors like fair skin, history of sunburns, or family history

• Some cancer screenings are reserved for people with strong personal or family histories or genetic syndromes, and genetic testing may be recommended in these situations

Screenings Beyond Cancer: Heart, Metabolic, Mental Health, and More

Many life-threatening conditions are not cancers. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and depression cause significant illness and death, and screenings for these conditions are equally crucial to staying healthy.

Blood pressure:

• Normal blood pressure is generally around or under 120/80 mm Hg

• Most adults should have blood pressure checked at least annually; those with elevated readings need more frequent monitoring

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure damages blood vessels and significantly raises heart disease and stroke risk

Cholesterol and lipids:

• Fasting or non-fasting lipid panels should begin in early adulthood, typically by age 20

• Testing every 4-6 years is reasonable for average-risk adults; more frequent testing is recommended for people with diabetes, hypertension, or strong family history of early heart disease

• Elevated LDL cholesterol approximately doubles heart attack risk according to the American Heart Association

Diabetes and prediabetes:

• Screening with fasting glucose or HbA1c is recommended every 3 years for adults with overweight or obesity, typically starting around age 35

• Earlier or more frequent screening is warranted for people with additional risk factors such as family history, history of gestational diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome

• Early detection of prediabetes allows lifestyle interventions that can prevent progression to type 2 diabetes

Weight and obesity:

• Routine BMI calculation and waist-circumference assessment at preventive visits helps identify obesity-related health risks

• Elevated values often trigger counseling on nutrition and physical activity, plus additional metabolic testing

• Obesity increases risk for diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and many other health conditions

Mental health:

• Depression and anxiety screening is part of primary care, especially for adolescents, postpartum women, and adults with chronic illness or significant stressors

• Brief questionnaires help identify people who may benefit from counseling, treatment, or referral

• Mental health is a key component of overall wellness and should not be overlooked during preventive visits

Additional screening areas:

• Hearing and vision checks become more important in older adults and can identify problems affecting safety and quality of life

• Bone density testing via DXA scan screens for osteoporosis in women 65 and older and in younger women at high risk

• Routine dental exams every 6-12 months help prevent oral health problems that can affect overall health

Vaccinations as a Key Part of Preventive Screening

While vaccines are not “screenings” in the traditional sense, they are a core component of preventive health services delivered during the same visit. Before receiving vaccines, your provider completes a brief screening questionnaire covering age, pregnancy status, immune function, and allergies to determine which immunizations are appropriate for you.

Childhood and adolescent vaccines:

• Children receive vaccines following the CDC schedule, including DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), varicella (chickenpox), and HPV

• Most childhood vaccines are completed through adolescence and protect against serious infections like measles, polio, and meningitis

• HPV vaccine is recommended for all children starting at age 11-12 to prevent certain cancers later in life

Adult vaccines:

• Annual flu shot recommended for everyone 6 months and older

• Updated COVID-19 vaccines as recommended by CDC guidance

• Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Td/Tdap) boosters every 10 years

• Shingles vaccine (Shingrix) as a two-dose series starting at age 50

• Pneumococcal vaccines for adults 65 and older and for younger adults with certain diseases or risk factors

Vaccines during pregnancy:

• Tdap vaccine recommended in the third trimester of each pregnancy to protect the newborn

• Flu vaccine recommended during flu season for pregnant individuals

• RSV vaccine may be recommended during pregnancy to protect infants

Most health plans cover ACIP-recommended vaccines without cost-sharing when administered by an in-network provider. Travel vaccines, however, may not be covered, so check with your plan before international trips.

How to Use Your Family History to Guide Screenings

Knowing which conditions run in your family—such as colon cancer diagnosed before age 50, breast or ovarian cancer, heart attacks in relatives in their 40s or 50s, or type 2 diabetes—can significantly change when and how often you should be screened. Your family health history is one of the most powerful tools for personalizing preventive care.

Steps to gather and use your family history:

• Talk with parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, and uncles about their health conditions

• Write down specific diagnoses and the age at which each condition was diagnosed

• Note which relatives have had cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, or other significant health problems

• Use digital tools like the U.S. Surgeon General’s “My Family Health Portrait” to organize and update this information over time

• Bring your family history summary to every preventive visit with your primary care provider

• Update your records when you learn new information about family members’ health

How providers use this information:

• Strong family history may lead to earlier colonoscopy (before age 45) or more frequent screening

• History of breast or ovarian cancer in close relatives may prompt discussion of genetic testing for BRCA mutations and additional imaging like breast MRI

• Family history of early heart disease may result in more aggressive cholesterol management and earlier cardiovascular testing

• Diabetes in multiple family members may trigger earlier and more frequent blood sugar screening

A strong family history does not guarantee you will develop the same diseases, but it signals that closer monitoring and proactive lifestyle changes are especially important for you.

Finding a Doctor for Preventive Screenings

Choosing the right doctor is a key step in making the most of your preventive care and staying healthy. You'll find that most health plans offer a network of primary care providers who are experienced in delivering preventive services. This includes routine health screenings and cancer screening tests that can make a real difference in your wellbeing.

To get started, check your health plan's online directory or contact their customer service. You want to find doctors in your plan's network—this helps ensure your preventive screenings are covered and you avoid unnecessary costs.

When you're evaluating potential doctors, consider their experience with preventive care. Look at their approach to recommending screenings for conditions like breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. You'll also want to think about practical factors like location, office hours, and availability for appointments. This is especially important if you plan to schedule annual check-ups or follow-up visits.

Don't hesitate to ask potential providers about their philosophy on preventive care. You have every right to know how they tailor screening tests based on your age, family history, and risk factors.

It's also helpful for you to confirm that your doctor is familiar with the latest guidelines for cancer screening and other preventive health services. By selecting a provider who prioritizes preventive care and is covered by your health plan, you can access the full range of recommended screenings and services. This approach helps you catch health problems early and maintain your well-being.

If you have questions about which screenings are right for you, your primary care provider can help determine the best plan. They'll base their recommendations on your health history and risk profile, giving you personalized care that works for your situation.

Preparing for a Preventive Screening Visit

A little preparation can make your preventive screening visit incredibly effective. You'll want to review your family history before your appointment.

Discussing any known risk factors with your primary care provider helps them determine the right screening tests for you. This might include cervical cancer screening, prostate cancer testing, or diabetes monitoring—all tailored to your unique health history and risk profile.

You should bring a complete list of your current medications and supplements to your visit. Don't forget to mention any previous health problems you've experienced. This includes conditions like osteoporosis or diabetes that might influence your care.

Ask your provider if you need to fast before your visit, especially if blood tests are planned. During your appointment, you can expect to have your blood pressure checked and your body mass index calculated.

Depending on your age and risk factors, you may also undergo additional health screenings or genetic testing. Take an active role by asking questions about preventive care services and vaccines you might need.

Don't hesitate to mention any symptoms or concerns, even if they seem minor to you. Your provider can help determine if you need additional testing or monitoring. This open communication ensures you get the most comprehensive care possible.

After your visit, make sure you understand your next steps clearly. This might include scheduling future screenings or follow-up appointments. You should feel comfortable contacting your doctor if new symptoms arise or if you have questions about your results.

By preparing thoughtfully and engaging in open communication with your provider, you ensure you receive the preventive services you need. This proactive approach helps you stay healthy and catch potential health problems before they become serious concerns.

What to Expect at a Preventive Screening Visit

Preventive visits—often called “annual wellness visits” or “annual check ups”—focus on maintaining your health rather than addressing an active illness. These visits are typically scheduled once a year with your primary care provider or women’s health provider.

What happens during the visit:

• Measurement of height, weight, and body mass index

• Blood pressure and heart rate check

• Basic physical exam including heart, lungs, and abdomen

• Review of current medications, supplements, and allergies

• Discussion of any new symptoms or health concerns

• For women: pelvic exam and breast exam may be included depending on age and guidelines

• For men: testicular exam may be included for younger adults

• Skin check for suspicious moles if indicated by risk factors

Laboratory tests commonly ordered:

• Cholesterol and lipid panel

• Fasting glucose or HbA1c for diabetes screening

• Kidney and liver function tests in some cases

• Hepatitis C screening for adults (now recommended as a one-time test for all adults 18-79)

• Other certain tests based on age and risk profile

Lifestyle and screening questions:

• Diet, exercise, and physical activity habits

• Alcohol, tobacco, and substance use

• Sleep quality and patterns

• Mood, stress, and mental health assessment

• Safety concerns including fall risk in older adults and intimate partner violence screening where recommended

How to prepare:

• Bring a current list of all medications and supplements

• Prepare questions you want to ask your doctor

• Bring or update your family health history

• Verify with your health plan that the visit will be billed as a preventive visit to ensure $0 cost-share if applicable

• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access for examination

Costs, Insurance Coverage, and Staying on Schedule

Under the Affordable Care Act, many evidence-based preventive screenings and vaccines are covered at 100% by most private health plans when you use an in-network provider. However, coverage details vary by plan, so it pays to verify before your appointment.

What’s typically covered without cost-sharing:

• USPSTF A and B graded preventive services (including most cancer screenings, blood pressure checks, diabetes screening for at-risk adults, and more)

• ACIP-recommended vaccines for children and adults

• Certain women’s preventive health services including well-woman visits, contraception counseling, and breastfeeding support

• Well-child visits and eligible preventive care services for children

Important coverage considerations:

• If your visit shifts from preventive to problem-focused—for example, extensive evaluation of new symptoms—parts of the visit may be billed as diagnostic care and may result in charges

• Some services that seem preventive (like a follow-up test after an abnormal result) are actually diagnostic and may have cost-sharing

• Medicare beneficiaries have specific preventive services covered, including an annual wellness visit, but should verify coverage for individual screening tests

Steps to ensure coverage:

• Check your plan’s preventive care list before scheduling

• Confirm your provider is in your plan’s network

• Ask when scheduling that the appointment be booked as an “annual preventive” or “wellness” visit

• Review your explanation of benefits after the visit to catch any billing errors

Staying on schedule:

• Set calendar reminders for annual wellness visits and specific screenings

• Use your patient portal to track which screenings are due

• Take advantage of employer wellness programs that may offer incentives or reminders for completing preventive screenings

• Ask your provider at each visit when your next screenings are due

Staying up to date on preventive health screenings is one of the most effective, evidence-backed ways to protect your health across your lifespan. The few hours you invest in screenings each year can add years of healthy life—and give you peace of mind that you’re doing everything you can to stay healthy.

Your next step: Schedule your annual preventive visit, gather your family history, and verify your insurance coverage. Your future self will thank you.

References

References

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A and B recommendations | United States Preventive Services Taskforce. (n.d.). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation-topics/uspstf-a-and-b-recommendations

Are you up to date on your preventive care? (2025, August 15). Chronic Disease. https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/prevention/preventive-care.html

Breast cancer: screening. (2024, April 30). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening

Cancer screening tests. (2025, January 16). Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prevention/screening.html

Colorectal cancer: screening. (2021a, May 18). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/colorectal-cancer-screening

Colorectal cancer: screening. (2021b, May 18). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/colorectal-cancer-screening

Home page | United States Preventive Services Taskforce. (n.d.). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/home

Introducing the electronic Preventive Services Selector Widget | United States Preventive Services Taskforce. (n.d.). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/announcements/introducing-electronic-preventive-services-selector-widget

Recommendation Topics | United States Preventive Services Taskforce. (n.d.). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation-topics

Screening for colorectal cancer. (2025, February 26). Colorectal Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/screening/index.html

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between preventive and diagnostic screenings?

A: Preventive screenings are done when you feel well to detect disease early. Diagnostic tests are ordered to evaluate symptoms or follow up abnormal results and may cost more.

Q: Are preventive screenings really free with insurance?

A: Many are. Under the Affordable Care Act, USPSTF A and B screenings are covered at no cost if you use an in-network provider. Diagnostic services may still incur charges.

Q: When should I start preventive screenings?

A: It depends on your age, sex, and risk factors. Blood pressure and cholesterol screening begin in early adulthood, while cancer screenings typically start between ages 21 and 50.

Q: Can preventive screenings actually prevent disease?

A: Yes. Screenings like colonoscopy can remove precancerous polyps, vaccines prevent infections, and early detection allows treatment before serious complications develop.

Q: How does family history affect my screening schedule?

A: A strong family history may mean earlier or more frequent screening for conditions like cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Always share updated family history with your provider.