If we’re being honest, most of us aren’t great at making our own health a priority. It’s easy to keep putting off that routine health screening when you’re juggling work, family, friends and more. Nothing seems urgent, and you tell yourself you’ll book the appointment next week. Until next week somehow turns into next year.
But these aren’t just another item on your to-do list. Routine screenings are designed to catch certain cancers before symptoms appear, when they’re often easier to treat and outcomes can be much better.
The exact age you become eligible depends a little on where you live, but once you do, these screenings should become a regular part of your healthcare.
Here’s what to expect, when to book them, and how often you’ll need them.
Starting at age 25: Cervical cancer screening
For many women, their mid-20s mark the beginning of regular cervical cancer screening. While the appointment may not be anyone’s favourite, it’s one of the most effective cancer prevention tools available.
Unlike many cancers, cervical cancer often develops slowly. Screening can identify changes in cervical cells long before they become cancerous, allowing them to be monitored or treated early.
How often: Every five years (with normal results)
- Important note: Many provinces are transitioning to HPV testing over the traditional Pap test. HPV testing occurs every five years rather than three, and is better at detecting the virus that can sometimes cause cervical cancer. Currently, British Columbia, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island have fully rolled out the HPV testing program. The remaining provinces are still in transition, so you may still need testing every three years until that happens.
You’ll continue screening until: Around age 69, assuming your results remain normal.
Can you book it yourself?
Usually yes. Depending on your province, you can book through your family doctor, nurse practitioner, sexual health clinic or participating screening clinic.
Starting at age 40 (or 50 in some provinces): Mammograms
Turning 40 has become an important milestone for breast health in most provinces, with organized mammogram screening now beginning at this age for average-risk women.
Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian women, and routine mammograms can detect cancers before they’re large enough to be felt as a lump. That early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options and outcomes.
How often: Every two years
You’ll continue screening until: Around age 74 through organized screening programs, though some women continue after discussing it with their healthcare provider.
Starting age by province
- 40: BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut
- 45: Manitoba
- 50: Quebec
Can you book it yourself?
In most provinces, yes. Women who are eligible can self-refer directly to their provincial breast screening program without seeing a doctor first.
Starting at age 45 or 50: Colorectal cancer screening
Colorectal cancer is often thought of as an older person’s disease, but diagnoses among younger adults have been increasing in recent years. That’s one reason several provinces have lowered the age for routine screening.
The good news is that screening is simple. For most people, it begins with a FIT test that you complete at home in just a few minutes – not a colonoscopy.
How often: Every one-two years using a FIT home test
You’ll continue screening until: Around age 74
Starting age by province
- 45: Ontario and Prince Edward Island
- 50: All other provinces
Can you book it yourself?
Usually yes. Depending on your province, you’ll either receive a FIT kit in the mail or can request one through your provincial screening program or primary care provider.
Starting at age 65: Bone density screening
While bone density testing isn’t part of Canada’s organized cancer screening programs, it becomes increasingly important after menopause, when women are at higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
A bone density scan can help identify weakened bones before a fracture happens, allowing your healthcare provider to recommend lifestyle changes or treatment if needed.
How often: Your healthcare provider will recommend follow-up based on your results and risk factors.
Can you book it yourself?
Usually no. A physician or nurse practitioner typically orders the test.
Before you leave this page…
If you’re not sure whether you’re up to date, take five minutes today to check. Book the appointment you’ve been putting off. Add a reminder to your calendar. Ask your healthcare provider what you’re due for at your next visit.
