Your health screening timeline: a guide for every life stage
Many of us tend to brush aside our health until a problem arises that we simply can’t ignore. It’s easy to prioritise work, family and other commitments over routine check-ups.
But neglecting preventive care can lead to long-term consequences — physically, emotionally and financially.
In South Africa, where the burden of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension and cancer continues to rise, taking charge of your health early is crucial.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 80% of deaths in South Africa are caused by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), many of which are preventable with early detection and lifestyle changes.
The good news? It’s never too early — or too late — to start prioritising your health. By following a simple health screening timeline, you can stay on top of your wellness goals and catch potential issues before they become major problems.
A health screening timeline for every life stage
Health screenings are designed to identify potential health issues early, even before symptoms appear.
Below is a recommended timeline for preventive care, tailored for individuals at low risk. Always consult your doctor to determine the right screening frequency for your personal needs.
Age 1 (or after the first tooth appears)
Dental check-ups: Oral health is often overlooked but poor dental care can lead to serious conditions like gum disease and infections.
The American Dental Association recommends dental cleaning twice a year starting from the age of one or after the first tooth erupts.
Ages 3 to 5
Eye exams: Vision problems, if left undetected, can impact a child’s development and learning. The WHO advises vision screening for children at least once between the ages of 3 and 5.
Ages 13 to 15
Gynecological exam (for females): The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends an initial visit between ages 13 and 15. This is generally a general physical exam to establish trust and discuss reproductive health.
Physical exam (for ales): Teenagers should have a full physical exam at this stage, especially if they are or plan to become sexually active.
Age 18
Blood work-up and physical exam: Starting at 18, it’s a good idea to establish a baseline for your health with a complete blood work-up and an annual physical exam.
This helps track changes over time and detect early warning signs of conditions like high cholesterol or diabetes.
Skin cancer screening: South Africa has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world due to its sunny climate. During your physical, ask your doctor to perform a basic skin check — or learn to do it yourself.
Age 21
Cervical cancer screening: According to CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa), women aged 21 to 65 should have a Pap smear every three years. Early detection of cervical cancer, often caused by HPV, can be life-saving.
Age 40
Mammograms: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among South African women, with one in 27 being diagnosed in their lifetime.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends mammograms every one to two years starting at age 40, especially for women with a family history of breast cancer.
Age 45
Colon cancer screening: Colorectal cancer is one of the top five cancers in South Africa.
The American Cancer Society lowered the recommended age for colon cancer screening from 50 to 45 due to rising cases among younger adults. Early detection can save lives.
Age 55
Prostate cancer screening: Prostate cancer disproportionately affects African men, and South Africa has a high prevalence.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa advises men aged 55 to 69 to discuss screening options like a digital rectal exam or PSA test with their doctor, particularly if there’s a family history.
Lung cancer screening: Smoking remains a major health issue in South Africa. If you have a 30-pack-year smoking history or quit within the past 15 years, annual low-dose CT scans may be recommended.
Age 65
Osteoporosis screening: As you age, bone density decreases, increasing the risk of fractures. The National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa recommends a bone density scan (DEXA) for women aged 65 and older or earlier for those at high risk.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening: For men aged 65 to 75 who have smoked, a one-time ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms is recommended.
Why regular screening matters
In South Africa, where public healthcare systems are often overstretched, preventive care is key to reducing the burden of disease. Regular check-ups can help you avoid costly emergency treatments and improve your overall quality of life.
For instance, early detection of hypertension — a condition affecting 1 in 3 adults in South Africa — can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. Similarly, catching diabetes early can prevent complications such as kidney failure or limb amputations.
Our health is our greatest asset and taking a proactive approach can prevent small issues from becoming big problems. Whether you’re in your 20s or 60s, there’s always something you can do to stay healthy.