Ages 18-29

Your 20s are a time to build a strong foundation for lifelong health. Focus on prevention, early detection, and establishing healthy habits.

• Schedule a general health check-up annually or as recommended by your doctor to monitor your overall wellbeing.
• Undergo a cervical screening test starting at age 25, with follow-ups every five years if results are normal.
• Get tested for STIs based on your risk factors and sexual activity to ensure early detection and treatment.
• Be aware of breast health by performing self-checks regularly and understanding what is normal for your body.
• Prioritise mental health check-ins to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing.
• Have regular skin checks to monitor for any changes, especially given Australia’s high sun exposure.
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, including HPV, influenza, and other recommended immunisations.
• Discuss reproductive health concerns such as contraception options, menstrual health, and fertility awareness with your doctor.

Ages 30-39

As you move into your 30s, continue preventive health care while focusing on reproductive health and risk factors for chronic diseases.

• Continue cervical screening as per guidelines to detect early signs of cervical cancer.
• Schedule a preconception and fertility check if planning pregnancy to ensure optimal reproductive health.
• Perform regular breast checks through self-exams and clinical exams with your GP if needed.
• Prioritise mental health and stress management to maintain emotional wellbeing amid life’s increasing demands.
• Book annual skin checks to monitor moles and other skin changes that may indicate skin cancer.
• Check baseline cholesterol and blood pressure levels to assess your risk of heart disease.
• Undergo a diabetes risk assessment if you have a family history or other risk factors for the condition.

Ages 40-49

In your 40s, start focusing on breast health, heart disease prevention, and early signs of menopause.

• Continue regular breast self-exams and visit your doctor if you notice any changes.
• Have a heart health check to monitor cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and other cardiovascular risk factors.
• Get screened for diabetes to detect early signs of the disease, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.
• Assess bone health through a bone density test if you are at risk for early bone loss.
• Discuss mental health and menopause transition with your doctor, as hormonal changes may begin during this period.
• Book regular skin checks to detect early signs of skin cancer.
• Schedule eye and hearing tests to identify any changes in vision or hearing that may require intervention.

Ages 50-64

This is a key time for cancer screenings and managing menopause-related health changes.

• Begin regular mammograms from age 50, following BreastScreen Australia recommendations (every 2 years between ages 50 and 74).
• Participate in bowel cancer screening every two years from age 50 through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
• Get a bone density scan if at risk for osteoporosis, especially post-menopause.
• Undergo regular heart health checks, including monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes risk.
• Have cognitive health and memory discussions with your doctor if you notice any changes.
• Manage menopause symptoms and hormonal health with professional guidance.
• Book annual skin checks to screen for any signs of skin cancer.
• Continue cervical screening until age 74 as per national guidelines.

Ages 65+

Maintaining mobility, preventing falls, and managing chronic conditions become key priorities in this stage of life.

• Continue bowel cancer screening until age 74 to detect early signs of colorectal cancer.
• Schedule bone density tests regularly, as osteoporosis risk increases after menopause.
• Undergo regular heart health and diabetes screenings to manage chronic disease risks.
• Have regular vision and hearing tests to maintain quality of life and ensure safety.
• Assess fall risk and mobility to prevent injuries and maintain independence.
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, including shingles, pneumococcal, and flu shots.
• Consider cognitive screening to monitor for early signs of memory changes.
• Prioritise mental health and social connection to support emotional wellbeing and prevent isolation.

The Importance of Preventive Care

Preventive health screenings can help detect conditions early when they are most treatable. Routine check-ups allow you to monitor your overall health, receive personalised advice, and make lifestyle changes to reduce future risks. Prioritising both physical and mental health ensures a well-rounded approach to wellbeing.

When to See Your Doctor Outside of Routine Check-Ups

While regular screenings are important, there are times when you should see your doctor outside of your scheduled check-ups, one of the main reasons being if you experience unusual symptoms that persist or worsen or other changes in your health that don’t feel normal. If you have concerns about your family history that may increase your risk of certain conditions or concerns about mental health, stress, or emotional wellbeing, consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor.

At Kirrawee Doctors, we are committed to providing comprehensive women’s health checks at every stage of life. The experienced and compassionate team of GPs at Kirrawee Doctors in Sydney is here to support you with regular preventive health screenings and personalised health advice. Book your next women’s health check-up today and take a proactive step towards better health.