Preventive Screenings by Age — What to Expect at Your Annual Physical

Preventive screenings help detect health problems early, often before symptoms appear. At Metro Medical Associates in Alpharetta and Cumming, GA, we follow evidence-based guidelines to keep you on track with the screenings that matter most.

In Your 20s & 30s

  • Blood pressure check every visit
  • Cholesterol screening (starting at age 20 if risk factors are present)
  • Pap smear & HPV testing (women, starting at 21)
  • STI screening (as indicated)
  • Diabetes screening if overweight or family history present
  • Skin cancer check if at risk
  • Immunizations: HPV, Tdap, flu, COVID-19

In Your 40s

  • Continue all screenings from 20s–30s
  • Diabetes screening every 3 years starting at age 45
  • Mammogram (women, typically begins between ages 40–50 depending on risk)
  • Prostate exam (PSA testing) for men (individualized, usually begins 45–50 if at risk)
  • Colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45
  • Eye exam every 2–4 years
  • Immunizations: Shingles vaccine and Pneumonia may be considered at age 50

In Your 50s

  • Continue all screenings from 40s
  • Colorectal cancer screening (colonoscopy or other tests every 10 years or sooner if abnormal/risk factors)
  • Mammogram (women, every 1–2 years)
  • Prostate screening (PSA) (discuss risks/benefits with your doctor)
  • Bone density scan may be recommended (especially women post-menopause)
  • Lipid panel (cholesterol) every 4–6 years (more often if abnormal)
  • Immunizations: Shingles vaccine, flu, COVID, pneumococcal as recommended

In Your 60s & Beyond

  • Continue mammograms, prostate exams, and colon cancer screenings as recommended
  • Bone density screening every 2–3 years (women age 65+, men as indicated)
  • Hearing and vision checks
  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening for men age 65–75 who smoked
  • Immunizations: Pneumococcal, shingles, flu, COVID boosters

Ready to Join Our Care Family?

Stay on Track with Preventive Care

At Metro Medical Associates, we personalize preventive care based on your age, risk factors, and family history. Whether you’re in your 20s or 70s, our primary care providers in Alpharetta and Cumming, GA help ensure you receive the right screenings at the right time.