Medical Tests Every Adult Should Take

Plus a few tests you may not know about

Staying on top of your health doesn’t have to be complicated. It starts with knowing which medical tests to prioritize. From routine screenings like blood pressure and cholesterol checks to lesser-known assessments like bone density scans and cognitive evaluations, these tests help catch potential issues early and guide your provider in keeping you well.

Whether you're scheduling your annual physical or simply curious about what your body might need, this guide breaks down the essential tests every adult should consider — plus a few you might not have heard of.

General health screenings

Some of the tests your provider orders are routine and help give an overall picture of health risks so you can partner to treat or prevent disease.

• Blood pressure check: A painless test that detects hypertension (high blood pressure), which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
• Cholesterol test: This blood test, also known as a lipid panel, assesses risk for heart disease by measuring the cholesterol — both the “bad” HDL and “good” LDL — and triglycerides.
• Blood glucose test: This test screens for diabetes and prediabetes through a finger prick. It’s especially important for those with diabetes risk factors.

Annual blood tests

Once a year, your primary care provider should order blood tests. One trip to your local outpatient lab can help your provider understand your health more fully.

• Complete blood count: The CBC checks for anemia (too few red blood cells), infection, and other blood disorders.
• Comprehensive metabolic panel: A CMP checks your liver and kidney function, electrolyte levels, and blood sugar.
• Thyroid function test: This test detects thyroid disorders, conditions that affect the thyroid gland’s ability to produce hormones.

Cancer screenings

Early detection is key to having the best outcomes if you receive a cancer diagnosis. These tests help detect the most common cancers.

• Colonoscopy: Recommended by doctors beginning at age 45, this test helps screen for colon cancer.
• Mammogram: For women age 40 and older, an annual mammogram helps detect breast cancer early.
• Pap smear and HPV test: This test is important for women age 21 to 65 to screen for cervical cancer.
• Prostate screening: Also known as a PSA test, this prostate cancer screening is recommended for men age 50 and older, or earlier for those at higher risk.

Vision and hearing tests

We rely on our hearing and vision, and understanding changes over time can be key. That’s where regular tests come in.

• Eye exam: Having an eye exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist every year or two helps detect vision changes and eye diseases.
• Hearing test: This test is especially important after age 50 or if you’re experiencing hearing loss.

Less known, but vitally important screenings

The tests above are more widely known, but the screenings described below are just as important as part of prevention and treatment. Together with the tests above, they provide a clear picture of your health for you and your provider to use as a tool on your journey to your best health.

• Depression screening: You may answer this questionnaire at your annual check-up. It’s used by providers to assess your emotional well-being.
• Cognitive assessment: This conversational assessment is recommended for older adults to detect early signs of dementia.
• Skin cancer check: Your primary care provider or dermatologist evaluates your whole body to identify unusual moles or skin changes.
• Bone density test (DEXA scan): For women over 65 and men over 70, this imaging test assesses risk for osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle, making them more likely to break.
• Immunizations review: While not a traditional medical “test,” this close look at your health record helps your provider know if you’re overdue for a vaccine such as flu, Tdap, or shingles.

Stay on top of your health — schedule an annual check-up

Your health is your most valuable asset, and regular screenings are one of the smartest ways to protect it. By partnering with your primary care provider, you can create a personalized plan that includes the right tests at the right time — ensuring you stay ahead of potential problems and feel your best.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule an appointment with your Adventist Health primary care provider today and start building a proactive path to lifelong wellness. Find a doctor near you.