After 40, women need five core screenings: mammograms, cervical cancer screening, colorectal cancer screening, blood pressure and cholesterol checks, and blood sugar testing. Bone density testing usually starts at 65. In April 2024, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the starting age for mammograms to 40, with screening every other year through age 74. Colorectal cancer screening now begins at 45. Your own schedule may shift based on family history, past results, and current health, so these ages are a starting point rather than a fixed rule. Below is a breakdown of each screening, when to begin, and how often to repeat it.

Your Screening Schedule After 40

Screening	When to Start	How Often
Mammogram	Age 40	Every 2 years through 74
Cervical cancer (HPV test)	Ongoing from age 25	Every 5 years through 65
Colorectal cancer	Age 45	Depends on test type
Blood pressure	Ongoing	At least once a year
Cholesterol panel	Ongoing	Every 4 to 6 years
Blood sugar (A1C)	Age 35 with extra weight	Every 3 years
Bone density (DXA)	Age 65	As your provider advises

The American Cancer Society updated its cervical cancer guidance in December 2025 and recommends HPV testing every five years through 65. Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar are usually checked together during an annual physical.

Why Mammograms Now Start at 40

The Task Force found that starting screening at 40 instead of 50 prevents more breast cancer deaths. Screening every other year keeps most of that benefit while cutting down on false alarms.222

Which Screenings Depend on Your Risk

Some tests are not on a fixed schedule. Bone density screening is recommended for every woman at 65, and earlier for postmenopausal women at higher fracture risk. About 27 percent of women 65 and older have osteoporosis. Thyroid testing, skin checks, and earlier mammograms may apply if close relatives had those conditions. A well-woman exam is where these calls get made, because your provider reviews your history and orders what fits you.

Final Thoughts

Turning 40 changes your screening schedule more than any other birthday. Mammograms begin, colorectal screening follows at 45, and blood sugar and cholesterol checks become routine. Book a visit with Yorktown Health Vernon Hills and bring your family history, so your provider can build the right schedule for you.