World Health Day: Preventive health tests you should never skip in your 20s, 30s and 40s

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure—and when it comes to health, early screenings can be lifesaving. As our bodies evolve with age, timely screenings become essential to detect potential issues early and ensure long-term wellness.

“Good health isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about proactive screening and timely checkups,” says Dr. Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram. “Regular tests help detect potential problems early, making treatment more effective.”

Dr Tayal spoke with Firstpost to explain a list of health screenings to be done during 20s, 30s, and 40s:

In 20s: Building a healthy foundation

Your 20s are usually the healthiest decade of your life, but they set the tone for the next few decades. Preventive care during this decade is all about building a healthy routine and catching any red flags early on.

Annual Physical Exam: A general checkup to keep track of weight, blood pressure, heart rate, and overall health.

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Pap Smear (in women): Every three years beginning at age 21 to test for cervical cancer.

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STI) Screening: Particularly if having multiple sex partners.

Skin Check: To track any moles or changes in the skin that may indicate skin cancer.

Mental Health Screening: Depression and anxiety typically emerge during this decade—don’t neglect emotional wellness.

Dental & Eye Exams: Regular checkups prevent long-term problems and catch issues early on.

In 30s: Keeping lifestyle risks in check

As careers and families expand, so do responsibilities and stress levels. At your 30s, lifestyle choices start to have their effect, so health screenings are more crucial than ever.

Cholesterol Test: You may develop high cholesterol without symptoms, which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

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Blood Pressure Monitoring: Even slightly high blood pressure readings must be addressed.

Blood Sugar Test: Early screening can detect prediabetes, particularly if you have a family history.

Thyroid Function Test: Especially for women, since thyroid problems usually develop during this decade.

Reproductive Health Checks: Fertility tests, if having a family, and routine pelvic exams for women.

Breast Exam (for women): Clinical exams and self-exams to detect abnormalities early.

In 40s: Watching for warning signs

At age 40 and above, risks related to increasing age start increasing. Early detection and the prevention of chronic illnesses become critical with preventive screening.

Mammogram (for females): Begin at 40 or sooner if there is a family history of breast cancer.

Colonoscopy: Start screening for colorectal cancer at age 45 or sooner if high-risk.

Eye Exam with Glaucoma Screening: Eye health tends to worsen with age.

Heart Health Tests: ECG, stress tests, or other cardiac tests, particularly if overweight or with a family history.

Bone Density Test (women): To test for early signs of osteoporosis.

Prioritising your health through regular checkups and tests is a lifelong commitment. Early detection can make a world of difference, so speak to your doctor about what screenings are best for you based on your personal and family health history.