Preventive health is about staying ahead of illness—not just reacting to it. Through regular checkups, screenings, vaccines, and healthy habits, you can reduce your risk of many common conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. By making small, smart choices now, you can protect your health, catch issues early, and feel your best for years to come. This page will guide you through practical steps to stay well at every age.

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Essential Health Screenings and Checkups

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To stay on top of your health, it's important to know what to check and when. Below is a list of key preventive care actions that can help you catch issues early and keep your body functioning at its best. Talk to your healthcare provider about which ones are right for you based on your age, lifestyle, and medical history.

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🚺 Women – Ages 18–49

 

• Blood pressure: Every 2 years (more often if high)

• Cervical cancer (Pap test): Every 3-5 years (ages 25–69)

• Chlamydia/Gonorrhea screening: Under age 30 or if at risk

• HIV & Hepatitis C testing: At least once if at risk

• Flu shot: Every year

• Tetanus booster: Every 10 years

• Mental health check-in: Depression, anxiety, and substance use

• Lifestyle review: Smoking, alcohol, diet, physical activity

• Dental and vision checkups: As recommended

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🚺 Women – Ages 40–74

 

Everything above, plus:

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• Mammogram: Every 2–3 years (ages 40–74)

• Colorectal cancer screening (FIT or colonoscopy): Starting at age 50

• Shingles vaccine: At age 50+ (free by OHIP at 65-70 years)

• Pneumococcal vaccine: At age 65+

• Bone Density Test (baseline between 50-65 years)

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🚹 Men – Ages 18–49

 

• Blood pressure: Every 2 years (more often if high)

• Chlamydia/Gonorrhea screening: If at risk

• HIV & Hepatitis C testing: At least once if at risk

• Flu shot: Every year

• Tetanus booster: Every 10 years

• Mental health check-in: Depression, anxiety, substance use

• Lifestyle review: Smoking, alcohol, diet, physical activity

• Dental and vision checkups: As recommended

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🚹 Men – Ages 50–74

Everything above, plus:

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• Colorectal cancer screening (FIT or colonoscopy): Starting at age 50

• Shingles vaccine: At age 50+ (free by OHIP at 65-70 years)

• Pneumococcal vaccine: At age 65+

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) ultrasound: One-time screen at age 65 if ever smoked​

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Preventive care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your personal and family health history, age, and lifestyle all play a role in what tests or vaccines you may need. Be sure to talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner about which screenings are right for you, how often you should have them, and what steps you can take to stay healthy. Regular conversations with your care team are one of the best ways to protect your long-term health.