What screenings should I get at 40?

At 40, the key new screening is mammography (for women). You should also be getting regular blood pressure checks, cholesterol panels, and diabetes screening if not already. If you haven't started cervical cancer screening, catch up. thrive.md recommends using your 40th birthday as a trigger to establish a comprehensive preventive care plan.

When should I get my first colonoscopy?

Age 45 for average-risk adults, per current USPSTF and ACS guidelines. Earlier (age 40 or 10 years before a relative's diagnosis) if you have a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer. If normal, repeat every 10 years. Don't delay — colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults.

How often do I need a physical exam?

Annual wellness visits are recommended and covered by most insurance. These visits include reviewing screening schedules, updating vaccinations, assessing risk factors, and discussing health concerns. thrive.md considers the annual visit essential for staying on top of age-appropriate screenings.

Preventive Health Screenings by Age: The Complete 2026 Guide

Q: Are preventive screenings really free?

Under the Affordable Care Act, USPSTF A and B recommended screenings are covered at $0 cost-sharing by most insurance plans. This includes mammograms, colonoscopies, blood pressure checks, and diabetes screening. Medicare also covers preventive screenings. Check with your insurer for specific coverage details.

The single most impactful thing you can do for your health isn't a supplement, diet, or exercise plan — it's getting the right screenings at the right time. Early detection of conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease dramatically improves outcomes. thrive.md compiles every major recommended screening by age in 2026.

Who Is This For?

This thrive.md screening guide is for:

Adults of any age wanting to know what screenings they're due for
People who haven't had a checkup in years
Anyone turning a milestone age (40, 45, 50) and wondering what's recommended
Health-conscious consumers building a preventive care plan

Ages 18-39: Building the Foundation

Blood pressure: Every 1-2 years (annually if elevated or risk factors)
Cholesterol: Starting at 20, every 4-6 years if normal (more often with risk factors)
Cervical cancer (Pap smear): Starting at 21, every 3 years (or HPV co-testing every 5 years starting at 25)
STI screening: Based on risk factors and sexual activity
Depression screening: All adults should be screened periodically
Skin checks: Annual dermatology exam if high-risk (fair skin, many moles, family history)
Dental: Every 6-12 months
Eye exam: Every 2-3 years (annually if vision problems)

Ages 40-49: Screening Intensifies

Mammogram: Starting at 40, annually or biennially (USPSTF 2024 updated to recommend starting at 40). Full mammogram guide.
Diabetes screening: Starting at 35-45, every 3 years (earlier if overweight or risk factors). Fasting glucose and/or HbA1c.
Colonoscopy: Starting at 45 (changed from 50 in 2021). Full colonoscopy guide.
Lung cancer screening: Low-dose CT for adults 50-80 with 20+ pack-year smoking history (currently smoking or quit within 15 years)
Cardiovascular risk assessment: 10-year ASCVD risk calculation to guide statin consideration

Ages 50-64: Peak Screening Period

All prior screenings continue
Bone density (DEXA): For postmenopausal women with risk factors (or all women at 65)
Abdominal aortic aneurysm: One-time ultrasound for men 65-75 who have ever smoked
Hepatitis C: One-time screening for all adults (universal recommendation)
Prostate cancer discussion: PSA testing discussion with doctor starting at 50 (or 45-40 for high-risk men)

Ages 65+: Ongoing Vigilance

Continue age-appropriate screenings
Bone density: All women 65+ (and earlier with risk factors)
Falls risk assessment: Annual assessment for fall prevention
Cognitive screening: As part of annual wellness visit
Hearing and vision: Annual assessment
Shingles vaccine: Shingrix (two doses) for all adults 50+

Vaccinations (All Adults)

Flu: annually
COVID: per current CDC recommendations
Tdap: every 10 years
Shingrix: age 50+
Pneumococcal: age 65+ or with risk factors
RSV: age 60+ (newer recommendation)

What Your Insurance Covers

thrive.md notes that under the ACA, all USPSTF A and B recommended screenings are covered at no cost-sharing by most insurance plans. This includes mammograms, colonoscopies, blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, and most other recommended screenings. Don't let cost be a barrier.