For most of us, it’s often not until we personally experience a health scare, or witness a loved one fall victim to a more serious health issue, that we give much thought to our ongoing health and vitality. 

And unless we’re already aware of any pre-existing risk factors that may apply to us directly – like a strong family history of a specific condition – then it can be months or even years between doctor visits.

But as the old saying goes, ‘prevention is better than cure’ and in Australia, we’re super lucky to have a health system that’s set up to support and protect the health of our future selves. 

The trouble is, with so many check-ups, screening programs and conflicting health advice out there (hello, TikTok), it can be understandably tricky to discern how best to take care of ourselves both now and in the future.

Given research also shows that a whopping 42 per cent of Australians remain unaware of the health checks that are recommended for their age group, we decided to take matters into our own hands and share a definitive guide to the tests you should be having – at every age and stage of life.

All ages

Skin checks

With one Aussie diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes, there’s no question that regular skin checks should be on your radar. 

While being sun safe is drilled into us from day dot, anyone can be at risk of developing skin cancer and only a small percentage of melanomas are even linked to sun exposure. 

To reduce your risk, make sure you keep an eye on your skin regularly by checking new and existing moles, freckles and spots, as well as skin that appears flaky, raw and/or inflamed. And recruit a family member to help examine areas of skin you can’t see! 

For melanomas specifically, The Cancer Council’s ABCDE system is a good one to remember:

• Keeping an eye on Asymmetry

• Border irregularity

• Colour changes and combinations

• Diameter changes

• Evolving spots

How often: See your GP at least once a year for a full skin check – and if you’re at a high risk for skin cancer, every six months.

Dental checks

Nobody likes going to the dentist, but regular dental visits are vital as cavities and gum disease can also be linked to heart disease and other more chronic health conditions.

How often: Every 6–12 months.

General health check

Most of us are guilty of only seeing our GP when we have a cold or flu to attend to, but even if we don’t have any pre-existing issues, it’s important to have regular health check-ups to keep an eye on things like our weight, blood pressure, sexual and mental health, vision and hearing.

How often: Every 12 months.

Teens and 20s

Cervical cancer

The good news is that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers so if you’re aged between 25–74 and are, or have been, sexually active, it’s important you get screened regularly. 

By registering with the National Cervical Screening Program, you’ll even get reminders for when your next test is due – making the process even more streamlined!

How often: Every 5 years.

Testicular cancer

When caught in time and with appropriate treatment, nine out of 10 cases of testicular cancer can be cured. And similarly to skin checks, it’s recommended that men conduct self-examinations regularly to take note of any changes. 

To do this at home, check yourself after a warm shower when the skin on the scrotum is relaxed. Healthy testicles should feel firm and smooth, so if you feel any lumps, unexplained swelling or notice any changes, chat to your GP.

How often: Monthly.

Breast checks

In Australia, women aged between 50–74 are invited to have free breast screening every two years and if you’re over 40, you are able to request a free screening, even if you’re symptom-free, if you speak with your doctor. 

But all women should be conducting self-examinations regularly as early detection is key to survival. 

To make it easier to remember, create a habit of checking your breasts everytime you get your period, looking in the mirror at the shape of your breasts and nipples with your hands by your sides. Repeat this with your arms raised above your head to note any changes. Then, have a good feel from your collarbone to beneath your bra-line, under your armpit and around the nipples checking for any lumps, swelling or skin changes. 

How often: Monthly. It’s also a good idea to get your GP to conduct a breast check at your annual check-up, too!

30s & 40s

Heart disease and cholesterol

If you’ve been having annual health check-ups with your GP, it’s likely they’ve already been keeping an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and kidney function – but if not, from the age of 45 it’s recommended you have more regular heart health checks to determine your risk for heart attack or stroke. 

How often: Every two years from the age of 45, or from 35 years if you have diabetes and from the age of 30 for First Nations people.

Type 2 diabetes

Around 125 Aussies are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes every day and given diabetes is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney and nerve issues, it’s essential to mitigate your risk as early as possible.

How often: Every three years – or from aged 18 if Aborginal or Torres Strait Islander. 

Breast cancer

Although women aren’t ‘officially’ invited into the National Breast Screening program until they hit the age of 50, as mentioned earlier, you can request a free breast screening from the age of 40. 

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer amongst women in Australia, and your risk increases with age with more than 75 per cent of breast cancers being detected in those aged over 50 – so being proactive is essential.

How often: Every two years – however, if you’re considered high risk (due to a strong family history or possessing a specific gene mutation that increases your risk), speak to your GP about getting more regular screening. 

50s

Bowel cancer

As one of the most common cancers in Australia, bowel cancer can be deadly if left undetected as it can grow for years before any symptoms present. 

The National Bowel Screening Program is free for those aged 50–74 and involves a faecal occult blood test (FOBT) which you can complete at home. Using this, you provide a couple of stool samples, send them off in the post and you’re good to go! 

How often: Every two years. However, if you’re considered high risk due to significant family history of bowel cancer or adenomatous polyps, have had an inflammatory bowel disease or bowel cancer in the past, it’s important to speak with your GP about more regular screening.

Bone density

We all lose bone density as we age, but this is one of those screening tests you need to be proactive about (even if you think your bone health is normal, you exercise regularly and get enough calcium and vitamin D) because a bone density scan can identify if you’re at risk of osteoporosis. Medicare may cover some of the costs, so chat with your doctor for more information.

How often: As recommended by your GP.

Prostate cancer

Unfortunately there’s no national screening program for prostate cancer, so it’s one of those tests (like bone density) that requires proactivity. 

Factors like family history as well as your general health and wellbeing are important, but if you develop symptoms like pain or trouble urinating, or detect any blood in your urine or semen, see your GP immediately. 

How often: Every year at your general health check-up!

60s

Eyes & ears

It’s no secret that our ability to see and hear can be impacted by age, and if left unmanaged, these things can impact quality of life.

How often: Once a year.

Dementia & Alzheimer’s

While there’s currently no single test to diagnose dementia and/or Alzheimer’s – and rate of cognitive decline can vary immensely between individuals – it’s essential to keep lines of communication open with your GP to stay on top of your mental and cognitive wellbeing. If you’re at all worried, don’t suffer in silence!

How often: Every year at your general health check-up.

The bottom line

While this list is a great reference, what’s most important is that you feel empowered to advocate for your own health – and that of your children. 

You know your body better than anyone and if you’re feeling any sort of health anxiety, there’s no reason to be embarrassed. The first step is always to reach out to your GP!

It’s also worth noting that there remains a huge spectrum of health issues that simply don’t have the funding or the early screening tests available, yet. One example is ovarian cancer, which tragically can remainundetected for years, so if you are experiencing any persistent pain or troublesome symptoms, please speak to your doctor. 

There is also a huge misconception that family history is the greatest indicator of our future health and wellbeing – but truth be told, only a small percentage of cancers (around 5 per cent) are linked to a faulty gene inherited from one of our parents. 

The rest are often just due to bad luck or lifestyle and environmental factors (like sun exposure or smoking), so no matter our age, it’s essential to consider how we can support our health more holistically. 

The best place to start? Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, prioritising sleep, exercising regularly and cultivating deep, long-lasting connections with those we love.

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