Expert Reveals 5 Essential Health Screenings Everyone Over 35 Should Get

According to clinical pathology and genomics specialist Dr. Shelly Mahajan, the age of 35 marks a significant biological turning point. From this stage onward, the body becomes less efficient at coping with the effects of modern lifestyles, including chronic stress, physical inactivity, and sleep disturbances.

Although these issues may not immediately develop into obvious illnesses, they can hide early signs of health problems that require timely detection.

The first recommended screening is a blood glucose test, which is essential for identifying prediabetes or disorders of carbohydrate metabolism.

Dr. Mahajan also recommends assessing cardiovascular risk by monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels. After the age of 35, the risk of heart disease and stroke gradually increases, making regular check-ups crucial for prevention.

She further emphasizes the importance of testing liver and kidney function, noting that diseases affecting these organs often develop silently and may not produce symptoms until they have significantly progressed.

Monitoring thyroid function is another key recommendation, as the thyroid plays a central role in regulating metabolism. Thyroid disorders can lead to persistent fatigue, stress, and low energy levels—symptoms that are frequently overlooked despite their long-term impact on overall health.

The fifth essential screening is checking vitamin D3 and vitamin B12 levels. Although deficiencies in these vitamins may not appear serious on their own, they can contribute to reduced quality of life, general weakness, and lower productivity.

According to Dr. Mahajan, undergoing these routine health screenings provides a strong first line of defense, helping individuals maintain their health and enabling early intervention before minor imbalances develop into chronic diseases.