Staying on top of your health doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the most effective ways to detect problems early and prevent long-term issues is through an annual health checkup. But simply showing up isn't enough—you need to know what to ask for to make your visit truly valuable.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key tests and screenings you should discuss with your doctor during your annual physical, based on your age, gender, lifestyle, and risk factors.

Why Annual Checkups Matter
Even if you feel fine, annual checkups help establish a baseline for your health and track changes over time. Many conditions, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even diabetes, can develop with no obvious symptoms. Early detection means early treatment—and often better outcomes.

Essential Tests to Ask For
Here are the most commonly recommended tests and screenings to request or discuss during your annual checkup:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Why it's important: Checks for anemia, infections, and signs of blood disorders.

Who needs it: Most adults; especially helpful if you feel fatigued or have unusual bruising or frequent infections.

2. Lipid Panel (Cholesterol Test)
Why it's important: Measures levels of good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol, plus triglycerides.

Who needs it: Adults 20+ every 4–6 years, more frequently if you have heart disease risk factors.

3. Blood Pressure Screening
Why it's important: Hypertension is a silent killer and a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke.

Who needs it: Everyone annually; more often if your readings are high.

4. Blood Sugar / A1C Test
Why it's important: Detects prediabetes or diabetes.

Who needs it: Adults 35+, or younger if overweight, have PCOS, or family history of diabetes.

5. Thyroid Function Test (TSH)
Why it's important: Checks for overactive or underactive thyroid, which can affect energy, weight, and mood.

Who needs it: Women over 35, and anyone with symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or weight changes.

6. Liver and Kidney Function Tests
Why it's important: Assesses how well these organs are working and screens for damage from medications, alcohol, or disease.

Who needs it: Everyone periodically, especially those on long-term medications or with chronic health conditions.

7. Vitamin D and B12 Levels
Why it's important: Low levels can lead to fatigue, depression, and a weakened immune system.

Who needs it: People with limited sun exposure, older adults, vegetarians/vegans, or anyone experiencing symptoms.

8. Cancer Screenings
Ask your doctor about age-appropriate screenings, such as:

a. Mammogram (breast cancer): Women 40+ or earlier with family history.
b. Pap smear & HPV test (cervical cancer): Women 21–65 every 3–5 years.
c. Colonoscopy (colon cancer): Adults 45+, earlier with family history.
d. Prostate exam or PSA test: Men 50+, or earlier based on risk factors.
e. Skin check: Especially for those with high sun exposure or moles.

9. Immunization Status
Why it's important: Staying up to date can prevent diseases like flu, COVID-19, tetanus, and shingles.

Ask about: Flu shot, Tdap booster, shingles vaccine (50+), and pneumococcal vaccines (65+).

10. Mental Health Screening
Why it's important: Depression, anxiety, and stress can impact physical health.

What to expect: Brief questionnaires or discussions to identify signs of mental health conditions.

Tailor Your Checkup:
a. Your health profile matters. Be sure to tell your doctor about:
b. Family history of chronic illness
c. Changes in lifestyle, like diet or exercise

New symptoms or concerns:
a. Stress levels or changes in sleep
b. These details can help your provider recommend additional or more frequent tests, like hormone panels, bone density scans (especially for women 65+), or STD screening if sexually active.

Final Thoughts
Your annual checkup is more than a routine appointment—it’s an investment in your long-term health. Don’t hesitate to speak up and ask for specific tests or screenings. The more proactive you are, the better your chances of catching issues early and living a healthier, longer life.

Tip: Bring a list of symptoms, questions, or medications to your appointment so nothing gets overlooked.