Rethinking Annual Physicals as Preventative Health Visits
We’ve learned through research that healthy people do not require a full annual physical with the same tests every year. A better approach is a targeted, preventive health visit, focused on an individual’s unique risk factors and family history.
Important Note: Screening guideline recommendations below are for average risk patients. Speak to your health care provider to assess your risk.
Targeted Screening Guidelines
Age 25+
Cervical cancer screening with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test every 5 years if ever sexually active
HPV testing is the most effective method for detecting cervical cancer and is more effective than a Papanicolaou (Pap) test. A HPV Fact Sheet is available for download at the bottom of this page. Cervical Screening | Cancer Care Ontario
Age 40+
Screening for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol
As of October 2024, women age 40-49 will be eligible for mammogram screening through OBSP (Ontario Breast Screening Program Screening for Breast Cancer | Cancer Care Ontario) Speak to your health care provider to find out more about the benefits and risks of screening.
Age 50+
Routine breast cancer screening with mammogram every 2 years
Routine colon cancer screening with Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) every 2 years or colonoscopy every 10 years
Age 55+
Lung cancer screening with a smoking >30 pack year history
Age 70+
Routine osteoporosis screening with bone density
Publicly Funded Immunizations
COVID-19 vaccine as recommended by public health
Annual flu shot
Shingles vaccine 65-75 years
Pneumonia vaccine 65+
Tetanus booster every 10 years
Let’s work together on improving your physical and mental health. Book a visit today!
Screening guideline recommendations are for average risk patients.
Speak to your health care provider to assess your risk.
Page updated: March 2025
Attachment (click to download):
HPV-Testing-Fact-Sheet-EN.pdf