Preventive exams are medical checkups that are conducted to identify any underlying health conditions or diseases before they become severe. These exams are crucial in the early detection of diseases and help in managing them better.

Most of the time, people ignore these exams, but it’s highly recommended to include them in your annual medical plan. Here, we have compiled a list of 30 preventive exams that everyone should know:.

1. Blood pressure

High blood pressure is a silent killer, and often, people don’t even realize they suffer from it. Checking your blood pressure regularly is essential to keep it under control. The optimal range is 120/80mmHg.

2. Cholesterol

Cholesterol levels are critical for maintaining heart health. A cholesterol test is a preventive exam that measures the level of cholesterol in the blood. High levels of bad cholesterol can cause heart attack or stroke.

3. Blood sugar

Monitoring your blood sugar level is crucial in preventing diabetes, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. High blood sugar levels can put you at risk of various health complications.

4. Pap smear

A pap smear test is primarily for women and is conducted to detect any abnormal cells in the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer. Women aged 21-65 should get tested every three to five years.

5. Mammogram

A mammogram is a breast cancer screening that uses X-rays to detect any signs of cancer. Women aged 50-74 should get tested every two years.

6. Prostate exam

A prostate exam is a preventive exam conducted for men to detect early signs of prostate cancer. The exam involves a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) and a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test. Men aged 50 and above should get tested regularly.

7. Skin cancer screening

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide. A skin cancer screening exam can detect any early signs of skin cancer. The exam involves a visual inspection of the skin for any abnormalities.

8. Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a preventive exam that is used to detect any abnormal growths or polyps in the colon that may lead to colon cancer. People aged 50 and above should get tested every ten years.

9. Eye exam

Getting a routine eye exam is essential in maintaining good eye health. The exam can detect any signs of vision problems, cataracts, or glaucoma. It’s recommended to get a comprehensive eye exam every two years.

10. Dental exam

A dental exam is a preventive exam for oral health. The exam can detect any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer. It’s recommended to get a dental exam every six months.

11. Hearing test

A hearing test is a preventive exam that evaluates the ability to hear sounds. It’s recommended to get a hearing test at least once every ten years until age 50, and every three years thereafter.

12. Bone density test

A bone density test is a preventive exam that measures bone strength. The exam can detect any signs of osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones. Women aged 65 and above and men aged 70 and above should get tested regularly.

13. Thyroid screening

A thyroid screening exam is done to detect any abnormality in the thyroid gland. The exam involves a blood test to check levels of thyroid hormones. Women are more prone to thyroid issues and should get the test done regularly.

14. Lung cancer screening

A lung cancer screening exam is conducted to detect any signs of lung cancer in people at high risk – those who are heavy smokers or former smokers. The exam involves a low-dose CT scan of the chest.

15. STD screening

An STD screening is a preventive exam that checks for sexually transmitted infections. It’s recommended for sexually active individuals to get tested regularly.

16. HIV test

An HIV test is a preventive exam that checks for the human immunodeficiency virus, which can cause Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It’s recommended for sexually active individuals to get tested regularly.

17. Hepatitis B and C screening

Hepatitis B and C are liver infections that can lead to liver cancer if left untreated. A screening exam involves a blood test and is recommended for people at risk of these infections.

18. Testicular cancer screening

A testicular cancer screening exam is conducted to detect early signs of testicular cancer in men. The exam involves a visual inspection of the testicles and a physical exam. Men aged 15-35 should get tested regularly.

19. Abdominal ultrasound

An abdominal ultrasound is a preventive exam that uses sound waves to create images of the abdomen. The exam can detect any abnormal growth in organs such as the liver or kidneys.

20. Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG is a preventive exam that measures the electrical activity of the heart. The exam can detect any signs of heart disease or arrhythmias.

21. Body mass index (BMI) measurement

A BMI measurement is a preventive exam that calculates body fat based on height and weight. The exam can determine if someone is overweight or obese and at risk of various health complications.

22. Genetic testing

Genetic testing is a preventive exam that can identify any genetic conditions that may run in a family. The test can help in managing the disease or preventing it altogether.

23. Vitamin D screening

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps in calcium absorption and maintaining bone health. A screening exam can detect any Vitamin D deficiency, which can cause various health complications.

24. Sleep apnea screening

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects breathing patterns during sleep. A screening exam can detect any signs of sleep apnea. The exam involves a sleep study conducted by a sleep specialist.

25. Liver function test

A liver function test is a preventive exam that measures liver function. The exam can detect any signs of liver disease or liver damage.

26. Kidney function test

A kidney function test is a preventive exam that measures the function of the kidneys. The exam can detect any signs of kidney disease or kidney damage.

27. Vitamin B12 deficiency screening

Vitamin B12 is a crucial nutrient that helps in maintaining nerve function and producing red blood cells. A screening exam can detect any Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause various health complications.

28. Prothrombin time (PT) test

A PT test is a preventive exam that measures the clotting ability of the blood. The exam can detect any signs of clotting disorders or bleeding disorders.

29. Electrolyte panel test

An electrolyte panel test is a preventive exam that measures the levels of electrolytes in the blood. The exam can detect any signs of electrolyte imbalance, which can cause various health complications.

30. Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) test

A CMP test is a preventive exam that measures the function of various organs in the body, such as the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. The exam can detect any signs of organ dysfunction or organ damage.

These are some of the preventive exams that everyone should know. Regular testing and monitoring can help in early detection and managing diseases better. Maintain good health by staying on top of these exams.