Screening & diagnostics

1.2.1 Considerations by age group

The following is a breakdown of screening and diagnostic tests by age group, based on common recommendations from international bodies, and these may vary by country and organization.

Prenatal

Prenatal screening and diagnostic tests aim to identify potential health conditions in the foetus. Screening tests are non-invasive and include blood and ultrasound tests. Diagnostic testing is more invasive and can include amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. Key considerations include the mother’s age, family history, and the results of initial screenings.

Ages 0-4

This age group focuses on early detection of congenital and developmental conditions. The goal is to intervene as early as possible to prevent long-term disability.

Ages 5-14

Preventive care in this group focuses on continued healthy development, identifying emerging issues, and managing chronic conditions.

Ages 15-22

This period marks the transition to adulthood and the emergence of new health risks. Screening for obesity, infectious and sexually transmitted disease and some cancers commence at this age.

Ages 23-36

Focus shifts to monitoring for chronic diseases and continued cancer screening.
General health check: Regular checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, especially if there are risk factors for diabetes or heart disease.

Ages 37-54

This age group sees an increased risk of chronic diseases and cancer, leading to more frequent and specialized screenings, e.g. for cardiovascular health, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, cervical screening and lung cancer for those at high risk.

Ages 55-70

Screening in this group intensifies due to the rising prevalence of age-related conditions. Screening continues as per younger adults, including those for cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, and breast cancer. Additional screening includes for prostate cancer, bone density in women and abdominal aortic aneurysm screening in male smokers.

Ages 70+

Screening decisions in this group become more individualized, considering the person’s overall health status and life expectancy. Checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar remain routine but decisions about continuing cancer screenings weigh the potential benefits against the risks in a person’s specific health context. Ageing-specific screening includes testing for cognitive health and dementia, hearing and eyesight, and for frailty, sarcopenia and risk of falls.