Keeping track of when to start screening for health issues from cancer to cholesterol can be confusing—not least because guidelines for some of the biggest tests have changed in recent years.
Earlier this month, a government-backed panel of experts lowered the age at which they recommend women start getting mammograms to 40, down from the prior recommendation of 50.
And many 40-somethings don’t realize they are now supposed to start getting colorectal cancer screenings at 45, even though that same expert panel lowered its recommendation from age 50 two years ago.
Most general recommendations are for healthy people of average risk. If you are at higher risk for developing a condition because of a family history or other factors, your doctor might recommend starting screenings sooner.