EnglishRegular Checkups: Your Guide to Preventive Care
Regular health checkups help catch potential problems early when they're most treatable. But how often should you actually visit your doctor? The answer depends on several factors.
General Recommendations by Age
Adults 18-39 (Generally Healthy)
- Comprehensive physical exam: Every 2-3 years
- Blood pressure check: At least every 2 years
- Cholesterol screening: Every 4-6 years (more often if elevated)
- Dental checkup: Every 6-12 months
- Eye exam: Every 2 years (or as needed)
Adults 40-64
- Annual physical exam recommended
- Blood pressure and cholesterol: Annually
- Diabetes screening: Every 3 years (more often if at risk)
- Cancer screenings as recommended (mammograms, colonoscopy, etc.)
- Skin cancer check: Annually if high risk
Adults 65 and Older
- Annual wellness visit (covered by Medicare)
- Flu shot: Annually
- Bone density test: As recommended
- Hearing and vision tests: Annually
- Cognitive screening: As part of annual wellness visit
Factors That May Require More Frequent Visits
You may need to see your doctor more often if you have:
- Chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or asthma
- Family history of certain diseases
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking or obesity
- New or changing symptoms
- Multiple medications that need monitoring
- Recent surgery or hospitalization
What Happens During an Annual Checkup?
A typical annual physical includes:
- Review of your medical history and medications
- Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, weight)
- Physical examination
- Discussion of lifestyle factors and concerns
- Age-appropriate screenings and lab tests
- Immunization updates
- Referrals if needed
The Bottom Line
Even if you feel healthy, regular checkups are essential for maintaining good health. Talk to your doctor about the right schedule for your individual needs and health history.