Taking care of your health doesn’t always mean big changes or complicated routines. Sometimes, it just starts with showing up. That’s where preventive screenings come in — quick checkups that can catch problems early, before they become something more serious.
Let’s talk about five screenings that public health experts, including the CDC and WHO, say every adult should stay on top of:
Blood pressure is the big one. Even if you feel fine, high blood pressure can silently increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. If you’re 18 or older, you should get checked at least every two years — or more often if your doctor recommends it.
Next is cholesterol. Most people should start getting their cholesterol levels tested around age 20, and keep it up every 4–6 years. It’s a simple blood test, and it gives you important info about your heart health.
Now let’s talk diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is more common than people think, especially in communities like the Rio Grande Valley. If you’re 35 or older — or younger with risk factors like being overweight or having a family history — you should ask your provider about a screening. It’s quick, affordable, and could literally save your life.
For women, cervical cancer screenings (Pap tests and HPV tests) are a must. These usually start at age 21 and continue every 3–5 years depending on your health history. Early detection here is powerful — it can stop cancer before it even starts.
Finally, there’s colorectal cancer screening, which starts around age 45 for most people. There are different types — stool tests, colonoscopies — and your provider can help you choose the best fit. What matters is not putting it off.
Here in the RGV, we know healthcare access can be confusing or hard to navigate. That’s why The Atomic Health makes it easier — use our free provider directory to find clinics that take your insurance, speak your language, and get you scheduled for what you need. Prevention is powerful, and you’re not alone in it.
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