These are the tests that catch cancer and vascular problems before they cause symptoms. Missing them is where not having a family doctor hurts most. Use the country switch in the header to tailor guidance.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early.
"I'm due for colorectal screening. Can you order a FIT test, or refer me for a colonoscopy?"
Family history significantly raises your risk and lowers the recommended start age.
"I have a first-degree relative with colon cancer β I need a referral for a colonoscopy."
HPV-driven cervical cancer is almost fully preventable with screening. Testosterone can cause atrophic changes that need a note on the requisition so the lab interprets the sample correctly.
"I have a cervix and I'd like a Pap and HPV test. If a speculum exam is uncomfortable, can we discuss self-collected HPV swabs?"
Screening reduces breast cancer deaths from age 40. Trans women on estrogen for 5+ years have similar risk to cis women and are screened the same way.
"I'd like a mammogram referral. (Trans women on estrogen 5+ years: same recommendation.)"
Top surgery removes most, but not all, breast tissue. Cancer risk is low but not zero.
"I've had top surgery β can you do a clinical chest wall exam and show me how to check the residual tissue myself?"
BRCA and other genetic risks change the screening timeline substantially, regardless of gender identity.
"I have family history of breast/ovarian cancer β can I get a genetic-risk referral and early imaging?"
Catches lung cancer at a curable stage in high-risk smokers.
"I have a smoking history β I'd like a low-dose CT lung cancer screen."
Melanoma is highly curable when caught early.
"Can you look at any moles that have changed? I don't have a dermatologist."
HPV-related anal cancer risk is higher for people living with HIV and for people who have receptive anal sex. Under-screened in most primary care.
"Given my history, should I have an anal Pap or high-resolution anoscopy?"
Hypertension is silent and the #1 preventable cause of stroke.
"Please check my blood pressure and tell me the numbers so I can track it."
A baseline makes it far easier to spot changes later.
"Can I get a baseline ECG to keep on file?"
Oral estrogen raises venous clot risk more than transdermal. Worth knowing before surgery or long flights.
"I'm on estrogen β can we review my clot risk, especially if I smoke, travel long-haul, or need surgery?"
AFib is a leading cause of stroke and often has no symptoms.
"I'd like to be checked for atrial fibrillation β pulse check or ECG."
A ruptured aneurysm is usually fatal; the one-time scan prevents that. Recommended based on smoking history β some guidelines extend to anyone assigned male at birth who smoked.
"I'd like the one-time AAA ultrasound."