Health checks for everybody - in your 20s-30s 

Your 20s and 30s are the perfect time to enjoy life, take risks, and seize every opportunity that comes your way. Yet, amidst your quest, it’s easy to neglect one important thing: your health. Health issues may seem far off, but these years are truly the best time to start looking after yourself. Routine check-ups can identify potential problems early, allowing you to live life fully today and in the years ahead.  

Health checks in your 20s-30s

A health check in your 20s and 30s can be important. This is the time when habits can influence your well-being and impact your future health. Regular health check-ups enable you to identify possible health problems early and provide a chance to make important lifestyle changes. While this time may seem like a phase of invulnerability, it also plays a key role in setting the foundation to prevent long-term conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Routine screening checks such as blood pressure and waist circumference/weight are important for guiding your current and future health. Taking these proactive steps empowers you to stay in optimal shape and leads to a healthier life ahead. 

Checks for women

Women in their 20s and 30s should prioritise health checks to ensure early detection of potential issues and maintain overall well-being. Key health checks include: 

1. Routine physical examination:

• Definition: This examination is a general assessment of one's health, focusing on various factors such as weight and waist circumference, blood pressure and heart rate, and a skin check, as well as lifestyle considerations.
• Purpose: to aid the identification of early indicators of health conditions.
• Recommended frequency: a 2-yearly health check is recommended for people under 40 years of age. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, an annual heart check is recommended from age 30. 

2. Pap smear:

• Definition: This procedure involves screening for cervical cancer through the collection of samples from the cervix. A self-obtained cervical screening test is now available for convenience.
• Purpose: The primary aim is to facilitate the early detection of cervical cancer and other reproductive health concerns.
• Recommended frequency: This screening should occur every five years from the age of twenty-five. 

3. Breast self-examination:

• Definition: This involves a self-examination to identify any lumps or alterations in breast tissue.
• Purpose: The intention is to promote early detection of breast cancer and any related abnormalities.
• Recommended frequency: Individuals are advised to perform self-examinations monthly. Any lumps or concerns can be discussed with your doctor and a formal breast examination arranged with your consent.  

4. Blood pressure assessment:

• Definition: This procedure measures the blood pressure in your cardiovascular system..
• Purpose: It serves to detect hypertension, which is a significant risk factor for conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
• Recommended frequency: If blood pressure is normal, assessments should occur every two years; however, more frequent evaluations may be advised if raised blood pressure is detected or risk factors for hypertension or cardiovascular disease are present. 

5. Cholesterol and blood sugar screening:

• Definition: These blood tests evaluate cholesterol and blood sugar levels to indicate the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
• Purpose: The screenings aim to promptly identify conditions before symptoms appear.
• Recommended frequency: routine screening is recommended if risk factors for diabetes are present (e.g., family history, overweight or obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome), you are over 35 years and from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background, or from a Pacific Island, Indian subcontinent or Chinese cultural background. 

6. Skin examination:

• Definition: This process entails a visual inspection of the skin to identify any moles or unusual changes therein. Your doctor will use a dermoscope to examine the skin. This is a special instrument that magnifies and illuminates the skin.
• Purpose: The examination seeks to identify signs of skin cancer.
• Recommended frequency: Individuals at high risk of skin cancer should conduct self-examinations every three months and see a skin expert every 6 months or as advised by your doctor. 

7. Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screenings:

• Definition: This involves testing for sexually transmitted infections through methods such as urine analysis, blood tests, or swabs.
• Purpose: Early detection is crucial to prevent complications and avoid the transmission of infections to others.
• Recommended frequency: Testing should occur annually for sexually active people between the ages of 15 and 29. Regular screening may be advised outside these ages depending on sexual activity. 

8. Mental health checks:

• Definition: This refers to a conversation with a healthcare provider focused on the individual’s mental well-being, addressing aspects such as stress, anxiety, poor sleep and depression.
• Purpose: The goal is to identify mental health concerns early to provide support.
• Recommended frequency: individuals with symptoms of a mental health condition are recommended to speak with their doctor or contact an advice support line such as Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14). 

Also read: Health Checks For Women Of All Ages In Australia - A Guide

Health checks for women & men - An overview

Health Check	Definition	Purpose	Recommended Frequency
Routine Physical Examination	General health assessment, including weight, blood pressure, heart rate, and skin check.	Early detection of potential health issues.	Every 2 years under 40; annually for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples from 30.
Pap Smear	Cervical cancer screening via sample collection from the cervix.	Early detection of cervical cancer.	Every 5 years from age 25.
Breast Self-Examination (Women)	Checking for lumps or changes in breast tissue.	Early detection of breast abnormalities.	Monthly self-checks; consult a doctor for concerns.
Prostate Cancer Screening (Men)	PSA blood test for prostate cancer detection.	Early identification of prostate cancer.	Consider from age 50 (earlier if risk factors exist).
Testicular Examination (Men)	Self-examination for lumps or irregularities in the testicles.	Early detection of testicular cancer.	Monthly self-checks; include in routine health exams.
Blood Pressure Assessment	Measurement of blood pressure levels.	Detect hypertension, a risk factor for heart disease.	Every 2 years if normal; annually for high-risk individuals.
Cholesterol & Blood Sugar Screening	Blood tests assessing cholesterol and glucose levels.	Identify risks for cardiovascular disease & diabetes.	Every 4–6 years, or more frequently if at risk.
Skin Examination	Visual inspection of skin for moles or abnormalities.	Detect early signs of skin cancer.	Self-checks every 3 months; professional check every 6 months for high-risk individuals.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screening	Urine, blood, or swab tests for STIs.	Early detection & prevention of transmission.	Annually for sexually active people aged 15-29; varies based on risk factors.
Mental Health Evaluation	Consultation on stress, anxiety, depression, and well-being.	Identify and address mental health concerns early.	As needed; seek help if experiencing symptoms.

 

Checks for men

Here are key health checks for men, with an explanation of each test, its purpose, and the recommended frequency: 

1. Routine physical examination:

• Definition: A routine physical examination consists of a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's overall health, concentrating on parameters such as body fat mass, blood pressure, heart rate, and lifestyle habits.
• Purpose: This examination serves to identify preliminary indicators of possible health complications and to verify that the body's systems are operating effectively.
• Recommended frequency: It is advisable to undergo this examination every two years under the age of 40, on an annual basis over the age of 40, every year over the age of 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, or as often as recommended by a healthcare provider. 

2. Blood pressure assessment:

• Definition: This assessment quantifies the pressure exerted by blood against the arterial walls.
• Purpose: It assists in identifying hypertension, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
• Recommended frequency: men should have a blood pressure check every two years under the age of 40, every year from age 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and annually for older adults. Those with risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as obesity or a family history of hypertension, might be advised to undergo checks more often. 

3. Cholesterol and blood sugar screening:

• Definition: These are blood tests conducted to evaluate cholesterol and glucose levels.
• Purpose: Screening aims to detect conditions such as hypercholesterolemia (associated with cardiovascular disease) and diabetes.
• Recommended frequency: Testing is recommended every four to six years or more frequently for individuals with risk factors cardiovascular disease or diabetes, such as obesity. 

4. Prostate cancer screening (PSA test):

• Definition: This is a blood test that quantifies prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, which may indicate prostate cancer.
• Purpose: The primary aim is the early identification of prostate cancer.
• Recommended frequency: men might consider a test from age 50 but this depends on the person, the presence of risk factors such as a family history, and ethnicity. 

5. Testicular examination:

• Definition: This examination involves a physical assessment to identify lumps or irregularities in the testicles.
• Purpose: The purpose is to detect testicular cancer, which predominantly affects younger males.
• Recommended frequency: Self-examinations are advised every month, accompanied by a clinical examination during routine health check-ups if desired. 

6. Skin examination:

• Definition: A skin examination involves a visual assessment to identify any abnormal skin lesions.
• Purpose: This evaluation is critical for early skin cancer identification, particularly for individuals at high risk of the disease.
• Recommended frequency: For those at high risk of melanoma, self-checks every three months and examination by a skin specialist every 6 months is recommended.  

7. Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screenings:

• Definition: These screenings involve testing for sexually transmitted infections, typically a urine and blood test but genital and oral swabs may also be recommended.
• Purpose: The screenings aim to facilitate early detection and treatment of STIs to treat disease and prevent spread.
• Recommended frequency: The frequency of testing should be determined based on individual sexual activity and associated risk factors, such as engaging with new or multiple partners. Sexually active people between ages 15 and 29 are recommended to have an annual STI screen. 

8. Mental health evaluation:

• Definition: This evaluation consists of a dialogue with a healthcare professional regarding mental health issues, including stress, depression, or anxiety.
• Purpose: The objective is to recognise early signs of mental health challenges and to foster overall well-being.
• Recommended frequency: individuals with symptoms of a mental health condition are recommended to speak with their doctor or contact an advice support line such as Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14). 

Also read: Health Checks For Men Of All Ages In Australia - A Guide

Where to get referrals in Australia?

In Australia, medical referrals are essential for accessing specialist care, diagnostic tests, and certain health services. Here's where you can obtain referrals: 

General Practitioners (GPs):

GPs are the primary source for medical referrals in Australia. Visit your local GP for an assessment; they can issue referrals to specialists, allied health professionals, or diagnostic services like imaging and pathology. 

Online telehealth services:

Platforms like Hola Health offer telehealth consultations with Australian-registered doctors. You can receive a referral online for specialists or diagnostic tests, provided the doctor assesses your condition and deems it necessary. Get online referrals in 15 minutes from AHPRA-registered doctors and GP in Australia with Hola.  

When to consult a doctor

Individuals are advised to consult a doctor if they:  

• Encounter persistent or severe symptoms, such as unexplained weight changes, persistent fatigue, or loss of appetite.  
• Experience breathing difficulties, chest pain, or severe headaches.  
• Seek help if you have any unusual lumps, ongoing pain, or changes to the skin assessed by a healthcare professional. 
• In cases where digestive problems arise, such as blood in the stool, prolonged constipation, or diarrhoea, a consultation with a healthcare provider is imperative. 
• Mental health matters, including enduring feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress, require serious consideration and should not be overlooked.
• Additionally, individuals experiencing sleep disturbances, alterations in vision, or recurrent infections should take the initiative to seek medical assistance.

Early intervention is critical in preventing the development of more severe health issues and ensuring the delivery of appropriate treatment. 

Your 20s and 30s are the ideal years to establish a solid health foundation for the future. Regular health checks and healthy habits now can help prevent larger issues later. So, while living your best life, don’t forget to stay in tune with your body—your future self will love you!