Staying healthy doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In 2026, preventive care is all about catching concerns early and making sure your screenings match your age, risk factors, and family history. At University Medical Center of El Paso, we encourage patients to use the start of the year as a reminder to check in on their health and schedule recommended screenings.
Here’s a simple guide to help you plan the screenings and immunizations you should review:
Core Screenings for Every Adult
An annual wellness visit remains the foundation of preventive care. Regardless of age, most adults should include:
- Vital Signs: Blood pressure and heart rate monitoring
- Weight Management: BMI calculation and weight trend tracking
- Mental Health: Depression and anxiety screenings
- Lifestyle Assessment: Tobacco, alcohol, and substance use review
- Oral and Vision Care: Annual dental cleanings and routine eye exams (frequency may vary by risk or age)
These evaluations help detect early signs of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and mental health conditions.
What You May Need Based on Your Age
In Your 20s and 30s
This is the time to build strong preventive habits.
- Cervical cancer screening: Pap smear every 3 years (ages 21–29). Expanded options now include self-collection for high-risk HPV (hrHPV) testing in appropriate settings.
- Cholesterol check: Baseline test, then every 4–6 years if results are normal.
- Diabetes screening: Starting at age 35 for adults with overweight or obesity.
In Your 40s
Screenings begin to expand in this decade.
- Mammograms: Annual or every two years starting at age 40.
- Colorectal cancer screening: Begin at age 45.
- Heart health assessment: A comprehensive cardiovascular risk evaluation.
Ages 50–64
Prevention becomes even more targeted.
- Colonoscopy: Every 10 years, or as recommended.
- Lung cancer screening: Annual low-dose CT for adults 50–80 with a significant smoking history.
- Prostate health discussion: PSA screening conversation starting around ages 50–55.
Age 65 and Older
Screenings focus on maintaining strength, safety, and independence.
- Bone density (DEXA scan): To screen for osteoporosis.
- Cognitive screening: Annual checks for early signs of memory changes.
- Fall risk assessment: Yearly balance and safety evaluation.
Don’t Forget Vaccines in 2026
Vaccinations remain a key part of staying healthy:
- Flu and COVID-19: Updated 2025–2026 vaccines recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
- Tdap or Td booster: Every 10 years.
- Shingles (Shingrix): Recommended for adults 50 and older.
- Pneumococcal vaccines: Based on age or specific health conditions.
Before your appointment, take a few minutes to review your family health history. If heart disease, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, or other conditions run in your family, your provider may recommend earlier or more frequent screenings.
Preventive care works best when it’s consistent. Scheduling the right screenings this year can help you stay ahead of potential problems and focus on what matters most: living well.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment, or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
