Age Flags
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Ages 50–64, Men: what to watch for

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General information only. Not medical advice and not a substitute for a doctor.

United States Emergency 911 Crisis line 988
United Kingdom Emergency 999 Health advice 111 Crisis line 116 123

Elsewhere, call your local emergency number.

More emergency and crisis numbers

Built from 45 guideline items from government and public health agencies. Sources last checked .

Tests listed by sex refer to organs present at birth. Transgender and intersex people should ask a doctor which tests apply to them.

How the body typically changes

  • Bones are usually at their thickest and strongest in early adult life. From around age 35, everyone gradually starts to lose bone, and after menopause falling oestrogen levels can make bone density drop quickly. Source
  • Seeing things up close gets harder for everyone with age, usually after age 45. This normal change, called presbyopia, can mean holding reading material farther away, and it usually stops getting worse after about age 65. Source
  • The prostate starts a second phase of growth around age 25 and keeps growing through life. Non-cancerous enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) is the most common prostate problem after age 50, and it rarely causes symptoms before age 40. Source
  • Hearing tends to decline with age: among adults aged 20 to 69 in the United States, age is the strongest predictor of hearing loss, and hearing loss is greatest at ages 60 to 69. (United States) Source
  • Muscle and bone mass both decline with age. Muscle mass falls by about 0.5 to 1% a year after age 50 and by about 2 to 4% a year after age 75, and strength can be lost even faster than muscle mass. Source

Main health risks

  • Worldwide, most road traffic deaths are among people of working age, from 18 to 59. Source
  • Worldwide, about 33% of adults aged 30 to 79 have high blood pressure (hypertension). Most people with it feel no symptoms, and about 44% of those affected do not know they have it. Source
  • Type 2 diabetes can develop at any age, but it becomes more likely from age 35. Overweight or obesity and a family history of diabetes also raise the risk, while keeping a healthy weight and being physically active may help avoid some risk factors. Source
  • The risk of coronary heart disease rises with age. For men it starts to increase significantly around age 45; women have a lower risk before menopause, and their risk rises more rapidly from around age 55. Source
  • The risk of colorectal (bowel) cancer rises with age: about 93% of cases are found in people aged 45 or older. Low physical activity, excess weight, drinking alcohol and using tobacco may also raise the risk. Source
  • Prostate cancer is most common after age 50 and can affect anyone with a prostate. It does not usually cause signs or symptoms at first. Source

Population data

Country Sex Average years left at age 50 Deaths before age 65, per thousand people of this age
United States Men 30.4 129
England, UK* Men 31.6 94
China Men 27.7 132
Japan Men 33.1 73
Spain Men 32.2 89
Brazil Men 28.0 149

Averages for whole populations from the United Nations; they say nothing about any one person. Figures are United Nations estimates for 2023. *UN data covers the whole United Kingdom; the guidelines shown are for England. Source: UN DESA, Population Division (2024), World Population Prospects 2024, CC BY 3.0 IGO; calculated and translated by Age Flags.

Screenings and vaccines by country

Showing: United States · US Preventive Services Task Force · Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US)

US vaccination schedules have changed in recent years; check the current schedule on the CDC website. CDC immunization schedules Congressional Research Service overview

Starting in this age range

  • Low-dose CT scan of the chest (LDCT) — ages 50 to 80; Heavy smoking history, and currently smokes or quit recently (see the note for the thresholds)
  • Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix) — age 50 and over
  • Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15, PCV20 or PCV21) — age 50 and over
  • RSV vaccine — ages 50 to 74; At increased risk of severe RSV disease (for example chronic heart or lung disease, end-stage kidney disease, diabetes with complications or needing insulin, chronic liver disease, severe obesity, moderate or severe immune compromise, or living in a nursing home)
  • Hepatitis B vaccine — age 60 and over; Has a risk factor for hepatitis B infection (for example chronic liver disease, HIV, sexual or blood exposure risk, current or recent injection drug use, incarceration, or travel to countries where hepatitis B is common)

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
HIV test
HIV screening		 ages 15 to 65 Younger adolescents and older adults at increased risk should also be screened; repeat screening is reasonable for people at increased risk. US Preventive Services Task Force · Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection: Screening ·
USPSTF grade A
MyHealthfinder: Get Tested for HIV
Hepatitis C antibody blood test (a positive result is confirmed with a PCR test)
Hepatitis C screening		 ages 18 to 79 once · Most adults need to be screened only once; people with continued risk (for example, past or current injection drug use) should be screened periodically. US Preventive Services Task Force · Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Adolescents and Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
Blood pressure measurement
Blood pressure check		 age 18 and over Suggested intervals: every year from age 40 and for adults at increased risk; every 3 to 5 years for adults aged 18 to 39 who are not at increased risk and had a normal reading before. US Preventive Services Task Force · Hypertension in Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade A
MyHealthfinder: Get Your Blood Pressure Checked
Tuberculosis infection test (skin test or blood test)
Latent tuberculosis (TB) infection screening		 age 18 and over; At increased risk of tuberculosis, for example born in or a former resident of a country where TB is common, or living or having lived in a homeless shelter or correctional facility As set out in the source US Preventive Services Task Force · Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
MyHealthfinder: Testing for Latent Tuberculosis: Questions for the Doctor
Anxiety screening questions (short questionnaire)
Anxiety screening		 ages 19 to 64 Includes pregnant and postpartum people. US Preventive Services Task Force · Anxiety Disorders in Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
Depression screening questionnaire (such as the Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ)
Depression screening		 age 19 and over Includes pregnant and postpartum people and older adults. US Preventive Services Task Force · Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
Blood test for prediabetes and diabetes (fasting glucose, glycated haemoglobin or oral glucose tolerance test)
Prediabetes and diabetes screening		 ages 35 to 70; Has overweight or obesity Screening every 3 years may be a reasonable approach for adults with normal blood glucose levels. US Preventive Services Task Force · Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
Stool test, or a test that looks inside the bowel (colonoscopy, CT colonography or sigmoidoscopy)
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening		 ages 50 to 75 High-sensitivity guaiac stool test (gFOBT) or faecal immunochemical test (FIT) — every year · Multitarget stool DNA test with FIT (sDNA-FIT) · CT colonography — every 5 years · Flexible sigmoidoscopy — every 5 years · Flexible sigmoidoscopy, plus a FIT stool test every year — every 10 years · Colonoscopy — every 10 years · Stool DNA-FIT is repeated every 1 to 3 years. US Preventive Services Task Force · Colorectal Cancer: Screening ·
USPSTF grade A
MyHealthfinder: Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer
Low-dose CT scan of the chest (LDCT)
Lung cancer screening		 ages 50 to 80; Heavy smoking history, and currently smokes or quit recently (see the note for the thresholds) every year · For people with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years who smoke now or quit within the past 15 years; screening stops once a person has not smoked for 15 years. US Preventive Services Task Force · Lung Cancer: Screening ·
USPSTF grade B
MyHealthfinder: Lung Cancer Screening: Questions for the Doctor

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Flu vaccine (any type suitable for age and health)
Flu vaccination		 age 19 and over every year · From age 65, a high-dose, recombinant or adjuvanted flu vaccine is preferred. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Ages 19 to 49 Years)
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)
Hepatitis B vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccination		 ages 19 to 59 Two, three or four doses depending on the vaccine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Protect Yourself from Hepatitis B
Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix)
Shingles vaccination		 age 19 and over; Has an immunocompromising condition (including HIV) Two doses, given 2 to 6 months apart. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
Shingles Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)
Tetanus and diphtheria booster (Td or Tdap)
Diphtheria and tetanus vaccination		 age 19 and over every 10 years · Adults who did not get Tdap at age 10 or older get one dose of Tdap first. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Ages 19 to 49 Years)
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Age 50 Years or Older)
Pertussis Vaccination Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15, PCV20 or PCV21)
Pneumococcal vaccination		 age 50 and over For adults who have not had a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (or whose history is unknown): one dose; with one of the vaccine options, a dose of a second pneumococcal vaccine follows at least 1 year later (see the CDC notes). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
Pneumococcal Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
RSV vaccine
RSV vaccination		 ages 50 to 74; At increased risk of severe RSV disease (for example chronic heart or lung disease, end-stage kidney disease, diabetes with complications or needing insulin, chronic liver disease, severe obesity, moderate or severe immune compromise, or living in a nursing home) A single dose; additional doses are not recommended. People can self-report their risk factor. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1)
Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix)
Shingles vaccination		 age 50 and over Two doses, given 2 to 6 months apart. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Age 50 Years or Older)
Shingles Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers)
Hepatitis B vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccination		 age 60 and over; Has a risk factor for hepatitis B infection (for example chronic liver disease, HIV, sexual or blood exposure risk, current or recent injection drug use, incarceration, or travel to countries where hepatitis B is common) Adults aged 60 or older without known risk factors may also get the vaccine, and should if they ask for it. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Adult Immunization Schedule Notes ·
CDC immunization schedule
MyHealthfinder: Protect Yourself from Hepatitis B

No national health check programme item for United States in this age range could be verified automatically.

Showing: England, UK · NHS England · Department of Health and Social Care (England)

Items for the United Kingdom cover England only.

Starting in this age range

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Faecal immunochemical test (FIT) home kit
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening		 ages 50 to 74 every 2 years NHS England · NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme ·
National programme
Bowel cancer screening
Lung health check (CT scan if at higher risk)
Lung cancer screening		 ages 55 to 74; Current or former smoker, living in an area of England where NHS lung health checks are offered Lung health checks are still being rolled out and are not yet offered in every area of England. NHS England · NHS lung cancer screening (lung health check) ·
National programme
UK NSC screening recommendation: Lung cancer
Ultrasound scan of the abdomen
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening		 Men; the fiscal year you turn 65 once · Men over 65 who have not been invited can contact their local AAA screening service to make an appointment. NHS England · NHS Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme ·
National programme
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Recombinant shingles vaccine (Shingrix)
Shingles vaccination		 age 18 and over; Severely weakened immune system (as defined in the UK Green Book) Two doses, given 8 weeks to 6 months apart. UK Health Security Agency · Shingles immunisation programme ·
National programme
Shingles vaccine

Health check programmes

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
NHS Health Check (heart and circulation check-up)
National health check programme		 ages 40 to 74; Not already diagnosed with coronary heart disease, chronic kidney disease at stage three, four or five, diabetes, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, transient ischaemic attack, high cholesterol (hypercholesterolaemia), heart failure, peripheral arterial disease or stroke; not prescribed statins to lower cholesterol; and not already assessed as having a twenty per cent or higher risk of a cardiovascular event within ten years every 5 years Department of Health and Social Care (England) · NHS Health Check (Local Authorities (Public Health Functions and Entry to Premises by Local Healthwatch Representatives) Regulations 2013, regulation 4) ·
Set by law
NHS Health Check

Showing: China · National Health Commission (China) · Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Starting in this age range

  • Low-dose CT scan of the chest (LDCT) — ages 50 to 74; At high risk of lung cancer: a heavy smoking history above the pack-year threshold in the national plan (including former smokers who quit recently), many years of living or working with smokers, COPD, occupational exposure (such as asbestos, radon or coal smoke), or a parent, child or sibling diagnosed with lung cancer

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Blood pressure measurement
Blood pressure check		 age 35 and over every year · A free check offered to permanent residents by primary care facilities under the National Basic Public Health Services. National Health and Family Planning Commission (China) · 国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)· 高血压患者健康管理服务规范 ·
National programme
国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)（国家卫生计生委 2017年2月）— 卢氏县人民政府网站转载 PDF
国家卫生计生委公报 2017年第3期（收录国卫基层发〔2017〕13号通知正文，附件略）
Colonoscopy
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening		 ages 40 to 74; Assessed as at high risk of sporadic colorectal cancer on the national risk score (based on age, sex, colorectal cancer in a parent, child or sibling, smoking and body mass index) every 5–10 years · People who cannot tolerate or decline colonoscopy may instead have a faecal occult blood test every year or another listed test. If a parent, child or sibling was diagnosed before age 60, or two or more were diagnosed, screening starts 10 years before the earliest diagnosis age in the family, with no lower age limit. National Health Commission (China) · 结直肠癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版) ·
National guideline
国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发肺癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和结直肠癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知 — 朝阳市卫生健康委员会网站转载
Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy)
Stomach cancer screening		 ages 45 to 74; At high risk of stomach cancer: lives in a high-incidence area, has a parent, child or sibling with stomach cancer, has tested positive for Helicobacter pylori, smokes, drinks heavily or eats a high-salt or pickled diet, or has a stomach condition such as atrophic gastritis, stomach ulcer, stomach polyps or a remnant stomach after surgery every 5 years · For people at high risk with no history of upper gastrointestinal cancer who can undergo endoscopy; people with some precancerous findings are checked more often. National Health Commission (China) · 胃癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版) ·
National guideline
国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发食管癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和胃癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知（国卫办医急函〔2024〕200号）— 广德市人民政府网站转载
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
Oesophageal (food pipe) cancer screening		 ages 45 to 74; At high risk of oesophageal cancer: lives in a high-incidence area, has a parent, child or sibling with oesophageal cancer, has habits such as very hot food or drink, high-salt or pickled food, smoking or heavy drinking, has a long-term oesophageal condition (such as Barrett's oesophagus or reflux oesophagitis), or has been treated for a precancerous oesophageal lesion every 5 years · For people at high risk with no history of upper gastrointestinal cancer who can undergo endoscopy; people with some precancerous findings are checked more often. National Health Commission (China) · 食管癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版) ·
National guideline
国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发食管癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和胃癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知（国卫办医急函〔2024〕200号）— 广德市人民政府网站转载
Low-dose CT scan of the chest (LDCT)
Lung cancer screening		 ages 50 to 74; At high risk of lung cancer: a heavy smoking history above the pack-year threshold in the national plan (including former smokers who quit recently), many years of living or working with smokers, COPD, occupational exposure (such as asbestos, radon or coal smoke), or a parent, child or sibling diagnosed with lung cancer every year · For people at high risk with no history of lung cancer. Chest X-ray, MRI, PET-CT and biomarker tests are not recommended for screening. National Health Commission (China) · 肺癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版) ·
National guideline
国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发肺癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和结直肠癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知 — 朝阳市卫生健康委员会网站转载

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Seasonal flu vaccine (inactivated or live attenuated)
Flu vaccination		 from 6 months every year · Priority groups are health workers, people aged 60 and over, people with chronic conditions, care-home residents and staff, children aged 6 months to under 5 years, carers of babies under 6 months and pregnant women. Children under 9 years having their first inactivated vaccine need two doses at least 4 weeks apart. Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention · 中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027) ·
Technical guideline
中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027)（发布页）

No national health check programme item for China in this age range could be verified automatically.

Showing: Japan · Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan)

In Japan, cancer screening is carried out by municipalities.

Starting in this age range

  • Stomach X-ray (barium) or gastroscopy — age 50 and over
  • Flu vaccine (influenza HA vaccine) — from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)
  • Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine — from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)
  • COVID-19 vaccine — from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)
  • Shingles vaccine (live or recombinant) — the fiscal year you turn 65; Also, until : people turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100
  • Shingles vaccine (live or recombinant) — from age 60 until your 65th birthday; HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Faecal immunochemical test (two-day sample)
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening		 age 40 and over every year · Screening is particularly recommended for people aged 40 to 69. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source
Chest X-ray
Lung cancer screening		 age 40 and over every year · Screening is particularly recommended for people aged 40 to 69. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source
Stomach X-ray (barium) or gastroscopy
Stomach cancer screening		 age 50 and over every 2 years · Stomach X-ray (barium meal) — every 2 years (age 50 and over) · Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) — every 2 years (age 50 and over) · For the time being, municipalities may also offer the barium X-ray from age 40 and once a year; screening is particularly recommended for people aged 50 to 69. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針 ·
National guideline
がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス）
がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知）
The publisher has listed a newer edition, which applies from a later date. Source

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination		 from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance) every year · One dose each year during a period set by each municipality between October and March. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
新型コロナワクチンについて（厚生労働省）
Flu vaccine (influenza HA vaccine)
Flu vaccination		 from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance) every year Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
インフルエンザワクチン(高齢者)（厚生労働省）
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
Pneumococcal vaccination		 from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance) once Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
高齢者の肺炎球菌ワクチン（厚生労働省）
Shingles vaccine (live or recombinant)
Shingles vaccination		 from age 60 until your 65th birthday; HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance) Either one dose of the live vaccine or two doses of the recombinant vaccine. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
帯状疱疹ワクチン（厚生労働省）
Shingles vaccine (live or recombinant)
Shingles vaccination		 the fiscal year you turn 65; Also, until : people turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 Either one dose of the live vaccine or two doses of the recombinant vaccine. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 定期接種実施要領 ·
Set by law
予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号）
帯状疱疹ワクチン（厚生労働省）

Health check programmes

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Specific Health Checkup (metabolic syndrome check)
National health check programme		 ages 40 to 74 every year · Run by health insurers (employees' health insurance and National Health Insurance) for their enrolled members, with health guidance for people at high risk of lifestyle-related disease. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · 特定健康診査(特定健診) ·
National programme
特定健診・特定保健指導（e-ヘルスネット）

Showing: Spain · Ministerio de Sanidad (Spain) · Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (Spain)

Starting in this age range

Screening tests

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Faecal occult blood test (stool test)
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening		 ages 50 to 74 every 2 years · The upper age was raised from 69 to 74 in 2026. Regions have 5 years from that change to start the extension and 10 years to reach close to full coverage of people aged 70 to 74, so screening at those ages may not yet be offered everywhere. Ministerio de Sanidad (Spain) · Cribado poblacional de cáncer colorrectal (cartera común básica de servicios del SNS; Orden SND/356/2026) ·
National programme
Real Decreto 1030/2006, de 15 de septiembre, cartera de servicios comunes del SNS — texto consolidado, anexo I apartado 3 (BOE)

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Flu vaccine (any type suitable for age and health)
Flu vaccination		 age 60 and over One dose in each flu season. Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (Spain) · Calendario común de vacunación e inmunización a lo largo de toda la vida. Calendario recomendado año 2026 ·
National programme
Recomendaciones de vacunación frente a la gripe. Temporada 2026-2027, España (Comisión de Salud Pública, 14 de mayo de 2026)
Vacunas y Programa de Vacunación — Gripe (Ministerio de Sanidad, ciudadanía)

No national health check programme item for Spain in this age range could be verified automatically.

Showing: Brazil · Ministério da Saúde (Brazil)

Starting in this age range

No national screening item for Brazil in this age range could be verified automatically.

Vaccines

Item Who it is for How often / doses Guideline Checked
Yellow fever vaccine (live attenuated)
Yellow fever vaccination		 ages 5 to 59 Recommended throughout Brazil. One dose for anyone never vaccinated; one booster if the only previous dose was given before age 5. From age 60, it is given only in exceptional cases, after an individual risk-benefit assessment. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
Hepatitis B vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccination		 age 7 and over Anyone without 3 recorded doses starts or completes the course, with the second dose 1 month and the third 6 months after the first. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
dT vaccine (adult-type tetanus and diphtheria)
Diphtheria and tetanus vaccination		 age 14 and over every 10 years · The first booster is at age 14, after the childhood DTP doses; the interval is shortened to 5 years if there is a risk of tetanus or diphtheria exposure. Anyone from age 7 without 3 previous doses starts or completes the course first. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella)
Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination		 ages 30 to 59 1 dose for anyone without proof of a previous dose. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination		 age 60 and over every 6 months · Regardless of how many doses were received before. Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)
Inactivated flu vaccine (injection)
Flu vaccination		 age 60 and over every year Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 ·
National programme
Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde)

No national health check programme item for Brazil in this age range could be verified automatically.

How countries compare

Each country bases its guidelines on its own evidence reviews and health system. Age Flags lists them side by side and does not judge between them.

Item United States England, UK China Japan Spain Brazil
Blood pressure check
age 18 and over
 —
age 35 and over
every year
 — — —
Colorectal (bowel) cancer screening
ages 50 to 75
ages 50 to 74
every 2 years
ages 40 to 74; Assessed as at high risk of sporadic colorectal cancer on the national risk score (based on age, sex, colorectal cancer in a parent, child or sibling, smoking and body mass index)
every 5–10 years
age 40 and over
every year
ages 50 to 74
every 2 years
 —
COVID-19 vaccination — — —
from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)
every year
 —
age 60 and over
every 6 months
Diphtheria and tetanus vaccination
age 19 and over
every 10 years
 Combined vaccines that also cover this may be listed in the country's full schedule: England, UK — — —
age 14 and over
every 10 years
Stomach cancer screening — —
ages 45 to 74; At high risk of stomach cancer: lives in a high-incidence area, has a parent, child or sibling with stomach cancer, has tested positive for Helicobacter pylori, smokes, drinks heavily or eats a high-salt or pickled diet, or has a stomach condition such as atrophic gastritis, stomach ulcer, stomach polyps or a remnant stomach after surgery
every 5 years
age 50 and over
every 2 years
 — —
National health check programme —
ages 40 to 74; Not already diagnosed with coronary heart disease, chronic kidney disease at stage three, four or five, diabetes, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, transient ischaemic attack, high cholesterol (hypercholesterolaemia), heart failure, peripheral arterial disease or stroke; not prescribed statins to lower cholesterol; and not already assessed as having a twenty per cent or higher risk of a cardiovascular event within ten years
every 5 years
 —
ages 40 to 74
every year
 — —
Hepatitis B vaccination
ages 19 to 59
age 60 and over; Has a risk factor for hepatitis B infection (for example chronic liver disease, HIV, sexual or blood exposure risk, current or recent injection drug use, incarceration, or travel to countries where hepatitis B is common)
 Combined vaccines that also cover this may be listed in the country's full schedule: England, UK — — —
age 7 and over
Flu vaccination
age 19 and over
every year
 —
from 6 months
every year
from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)
every year
age 60 and over
age 60 and over
every year
Lung cancer screening
ages 50 to 80; Heavy smoking history, and currently smokes or quit recently (see the note for the thresholds)
every year
ages 55 to 74; Current or former smoker, living in an area of England where NHS lung health checks are offered
ages 50 to 74; At high risk of lung cancer: a heavy smoking history above the pack-year threshold in the national plan (including former smokers who quit recently), many years of living or working with smokers, COPD, occupational exposure (such as asbestos, radon or coal smoke), or a parent, child or sibling diagnosed with lung cancer
every year
age 40 and over
every year
 — —
Pneumococcal vaccination
age 50 and over
 — —
from age 60 until your 65th birthday; Disability of heart, kidney or respiratory function that severely limits daily life, or HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)
once
 — —
Shingles vaccination
age 50 and over
age 19 and over; Has an immunocompromising condition (including HIV)
age 18 and over; Severely weakened immune system (as defined in the UK Green Book)
 —
the fiscal year you turn 65; Also, until : people turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100
from age 60 until your 65th birthday; HIV-related immune disability that makes daily life almost impossible (as defined by MHLW ordinance)
 — —

Everyday health

  • Guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64 advise at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity a week, muscle-strengthening activities on at least 2 days a week, and breaking up long periods of sitting. Source
  • Adults aged 18 to 60 need 7 or more hours of sleep each day, and adults aged 61 to 64 need 7 to 9 hours. Source
  • UK guidelines for people over 18 advise not regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol a week and, for those who drink that much, spreading it over 3 or more days. Staying within this keeps risks low but does not make drinking safe. (England, UK) Source
  • WHO guidance is for everyone older than 10 to aim for at least 400 grams of fruit and vegetables and at least 25 grams of naturally occurring fibre a day, and for adults to keep salt below 5 grams a day. Source
  • In the United States, tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death. E-cigarette use is most common among adults aged 18 to 24, and cigarette smoking among adults aged 45 to 64. (United States) Source

If your ancestry or background is…

South Asian · Chinese · Other Asian · Middle Eastern · Black African or African Caribbean

NICE (UK) guidance says people with a South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean background tend to carry more fat around the abdomen and face weight-related risks at a lower BMI. For adults it uses lower thresholds: overweight from 23 to 27.4, obesity from 27.5 or above.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) · England, UK · Source

Black African or African Caribbean

NHS (UK) advice lists coming from a Black African or African Caribbean ethnic background among the things that may raise the chance of getting prostate cancer, along with being over 50 and having a family history of it. It suggests speaking to a GP if you are worried about your risk, even if you have no symptoms.

NHS England · Source

Asian American

USPSTF (US) guidance, which recommends screening adults aged 35 to 70 who have overweight or obesity for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, says a lower BMI cut point of 23 or more may be appropriate for Asian American people, because differences in body fat composition mean the usual BMI thresholds underestimate their risk.

US Preventive Services Task Force · Source

Black adults

USPSTF (US) guidance notes that Black adults have the highest colorectal cancer rates and death rates, and that evidence points to unequal access to and quality of screening and treatment, not genetic differences, as the main cause. It recommends that everyone, including Black adults, start screening at age 45, and urges clinicians to ensure Black patients get recommended screening and follow-up.

US Preventive Services Task Force · Source

Fair skin types

USPSTF (US) guidance says people with fair skin types (pale skin, light hair and eye colour, freckles, or skin that sunburns easily) are at higher risk of skin cancer. It recommends counselling people aged 6 months to 24 years, and parents of young children, about limiting exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and selectively offering this counselling to adults older than 24.

US Preventive Services Task Force · Source

Born in, or with parents from, a region where hepatitis B is more common

CDC (US) guidelines list people born in regions where hepatitis B infection prevalence is 2% or more among those at increased risk, and recommend testing them, regardless of age, if they may have been susceptible to infection. The same applies to people born in the United States who were not vaccinated as infants and whose parents were born in regions where prevalence is 8% or more.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US) · Source

African American

NEI (US) health information lists being African American and over age 40 among the factors that raise the risk of glaucoma, along with having a family history of it. It says people at higher risk need a comprehensive dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years, and suggests asking a doctor how often to get checked.

National Eye Institute (US National Institutes of Health) · Source

Hispanic/Latino

NEI (US) health information lists being over age 60 among the factors that raise the risk of glaucoma, especially for people who are Hispanic/Latino. It says people at higher risk need a comprehensive dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years, and suggests asking a doctor how often to get checked.

National Eye Institute (US National Institutes of Health) · Source

East Asian

The MHLW (Japan) drinking guideline, mainly for adults aged 20 and over, says that in East Asia a number of people have a weak enzyme for breaking down alcohol and may flush red when they drink; about 41% of people in Japan are thought to react this way. It warns that long-term drinking greatly raises their risk of mouth and oesophageal cancer, even once it stops feeling unpleasant.

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) · Source

Ancestry is a population-level stand-in for risk factors, not a biological cause. Your own situation is for your doctor to judge.

When to see a doctor

  • Sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face, weakness or numbness in one arm, or slurred or confused speech can be signs of a stroke, which is an emergency: call your local emergency number straight away, even if the symptoms stop after a short time. A stroke can happen at any age. Source
  • Chest pain that feels crushing or squeezing, possibly spreading to the arm, neck or jaw, along with shortness of breath, feeling sick or sweating, can be signs of a heart attack, which needs emergency treatment: call your local emergency number straight away. Source
  • A lump or swelling in the testicles, a change in their shape or feel, or aching that does not go away is a reason to see a GP; most lumps are not serious. Sudden, severe testicle pain needs emergency care. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • Difficulty peeing or needing to pee more often, which are common with an enlarged prostate after age 50, are reasons to see a GP; blood in your pee, pain when peeing or not being able to pee at all need urgent advice. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source
  • Very high blood pressure (usually 180/120 or higher) can cause severe headache, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, blurred vision or confusion; these symptoms together with high blood pressure need care straight away. Contact a doctor or your local health service; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. Source

If you are worried about a symptom, contact a doctor or your local health service. In an emergency, call the emergency number for your country.

Common questions

Which items start in this age range in the United States?

For example: Low-dose CT scan of the chest (LDCT). Guideline: US Preventive Services Task Force. Who it is for: ages 50 to 80; heavy smoking history, and currently smokes or quit recently (see the note for the thresholds). How often / doses: every year · For people with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years who smoke now or quit within the past 15 years; screening stops once a person has not smoked for 15 years.

Which items start in this age range in England?

For example: Faecal immunochemical test (FIT) home kit. Guideline: NHS England. Who it is for: ages 50 to 74. How often / doses: every 2 years.

Sources

  1. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  2. MyHealthfinder: Get Tested for HIV · Checked:
  3. Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Adolescents and Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  4. Hypertension in Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  5. MyHealthfinder: Get Your Blood Pressure Checked · Checked:
  6. Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  7. MyHealthfinder: Testing for Latent Tuberculosis: Questions for the Doctor · Checked:
  8. Anxiety Disorders in Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  9. Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  10. Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  11. Colorectal Cancer: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  12. MyHealthfinder: Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer · Checked:
  13. Lung Cancer: Screening (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  14. MyHealthfinder: Lung Cancer Screening: Questions for the Doctor · Checked:
  15. Adult Immunization Schedule Notes (Recommendations for Ages 19 Years or Older, United States) · Checked:
  16. MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Ages 19 to 49 Years) · Checked:
  17. Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (Table 1) · Checked:
  18. MyHealthfinder: Protect Yourself from Hepatitis B · Checked:
  19. Shingles Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers) · Checked:
  20. MyHealthfinder: Get Vaccines to Protect Your Health (Adults Age 50 Years or Older) · Checked:
  21. Pertussis Vaccination Recommendations (for healthcare providers) · Checked:
  22. Pneumococcal Vaccine Recommendations (for healthcare providers) · Checked:
  23. Bowel cancer screening: programme overview · Checked:
  24. Bowel cancer screening · Checked:
  25. Lung cancer screening · Checked:
  26. UK NSC screening recommendation: Lung cancer · Checked:
  27. Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening: programme overview · Checked:
  28. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening · Checked:
  29. Shingles immunisation programme: information for healthcare practitioners · Checked:
  30. Shingles vaccine · Checked:
  31. The Local Authorities (Public Health Functions and Entry to Premises by Local Healthwatch Representatives) Regulations 2013 (SI 2013/351), regulation 4: Health check assessment · Checked:
  32. NHS Health Check · Checked:
  33. 国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)（国卫基层发〔2017〕13号附件，国家卫生计生委 2017年2月） · Checked:
  34. 国家基本公共卫生服务规范(第三版)（国家卫生计生委 2017年2月）— 卢氏县人民政府网站转载 PDF · Checked:
  35. 国家卫生计生委公报 2017年第3期（收录国卫基层发〔2017〕13号通知正文，附件略） · Checked:
  36. 国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发肺癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和结直肠癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知（国卫办医急函〔2024〕281号）— 广东省疾病预防控制中心网站转载 · Checked:
  37. 国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发肺癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和结直肠癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知 — 朝阳市卫生健康委员会网站转载 · Checked:
  38. 国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发食管癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和胃癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知（国卫办医急函〔2024〕200号）— 宁夏回族自治区卫生健康委员会网站转载 · Checked:
  39. 国家卫生健康委办公厅关于印发食管癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)和胃癌筛查与早诊早治方案(2024年版)的通知（国卫办医急函〔2024〕200号）— 广德市人民政府网站转载 · Checked:
  40. 中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027) · Checked:
  41. 中国流感疫苗预防接种技术指南(2026—2027)（发布页） · Checked:
  42. がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針（令和7年12月24日一部改正） · Checked:
  43. がん検診について（国立がん研究センター がん情報サービス） · Checked:
  44. がん予防重点健康教育及びがん検診実施のための指針の一部改正について（令和7年12月24日 通知） · Checked:
  45. 定期接種実施要領（厚生労働省健康・生活衛生局長通知別添） · Checked:
  46. 予防接種法施行令（昭和二十三年政令第百九十七号） · Checked:
  47. 新型コロナワクチンについて（厚生労働省） · Checked:
  48. インフルエンザワクチン(高齢者)（厚生労働省） · Checked:
  49. 高齢者の肺炎球菌ワクチン（厚生労働省） · Checked:
  50. 帯状疱疹ワクチン（厚生労働省） · Checked:
  51. 特定健診・特定保健指導について（厚生労働省 保険局） · Checked:
  52. 特定健診・特定保健指導（e-ヘルスネット） · Checked:
  53. Cribado de cáncer colorrectal — Información general (Ministerio de Sanidad) · Checked:
  54. Real Decreto 1030/2006, de 15 de septiembre, cartera de servicios comunes del SNS — texto consolidado, anexo I apartado 3 (BOE) · Checked:
  55. Calendario común de vacunación e inmunización a lo largo de toda la vida. Calendario recomendado año 2026 (aprobado por el CISNS el 12 de diciembre de 2025) · Checked:
  56. Recomendaciones de vacunación frente a la gripe. Temporada 2026-2027, España (Comisión de Salud Pública, 14 de mayo de 2026) · Checked:
  57. Vacunas y Programa de Vacunación — Gripe (Ministerio de Sanidad, ciudadanía) · Checked:
  58. Instrução Normativa do Calendário Nacional de Vacinação 2026 (Ministério da Saúde, DPNI/SVSA) · Checked:
  59. Calendário Nacional de Vacinação (Ministério da Saúde) · Checked:
  60. NHS: Osteoporosis causes · Checked:
  61. NEI: Presbyopia · Checked:
  62. NIDDK: Prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) · Checked:
  63. NIDCD: Quick statistics about hearing · Checked:
  64. GOV.UK (PHE): Strength and balance quality markers - supporting improvement through audit · Checked:
  65. WHO fact sheet: Road traffic injuries · Checked:
  66. WHO fact sheet: Hypertension · Checked:
  67. NIDDK: Risk factors for type 2 diabetes · Checked:
  68. NHLBI: Coronary heart disease risk factors · Checked:
  69. CDC: Colorectal cancer risk factors · Checked:
  70. NHS: What is prostate cancer? · Checked:
  71. NHS: Physical activity guidelines for adults · Checked:
  72. CDC: About sleep · Checked:
  73. nidirect (Northern Ireland government): Alcohol units · Checked:
  74. WHO fact sheet: Healthy diet · Checked:
  75. CDC: Current cigarette smoking among adults in the United States · Checked:
  76. NHS: Stroke symptoms · Checked:
  77. NHS: Heart attack symptoms · Checked:
  78. NHS: Testicular lumps and swellings · Checked:
  79. NHS: Benign prostate enlargement · Checked:
  80. NICE NG246 Overweight and obesity management: Identifying and assessing overweight, obesity and central adiposity · Checked:
  81. NHS: Causes of prostate cancer · Checked:
  82. Skin Cancer Prevention: Behavioral Counseling (USPSTF Final Recommendation Statement) · Checked:
  83. Screening and Testing for Hepatitis B Virus Infection: CDC Recommendations — United States, 2023 (MMWR Recomm Rep 72(1)) · Checked:
  84. NEI: Glaucoma · Checked:
  85. 健康に配慮した飲酒に関するガイドライン（厚生労働省） · Checked:

Material adapted from the US Preventive Services Task Force has not been reviewed or endorsed by AHRQ or HHS.

Source: website of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan (the pages listed above), adapted by Age Flags.

Figures are restated from the publishers listed above; the original guidelines remain theirs. Some content contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Adapted content has not been reviewed or endorsed by the original publishers.

Emergency and crisis lines

United States Emergency 911 Emergency services (United States) · Source Crisis line 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (United States) · Available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. · Source
United Kingdom Emergency 999 NHS England · Source Health advice 111 NHS England · Source Crisis line 116 123 Samaritans · Open 24 hours a day. · Source
China Emergency 120 National Health Commission (China) · Source Crisis line 12356 National Health Commission (China) · Each line provides at least 18 hours of service a day under the national notice; hours vary by city. · Source
Japan Emergency 119 Fire and Disaster Management Agency (Japan) · Source Crisis line 0120‑061‑338 #いのちSOS (Lifelink) · Open 24 hours a day, every day (free call). · Source Crisis line 0120‑279‑338 Yorisoi Hotline · Open 24 hours a day (free call). · Source
Spain Emergency 112 Emergency services (Spain) · Source Crisis line 024 Ministerio de Sanidad (Spain) · Free and confidential, 24 hours a day, every day of the year. · Source
Brazil Emergency 192 Ministério da Saúde (Brazil) · Source Crisis line 188 CVV — Centro de Valorização da Vida · Free, 24 hours a day, anywhere in Brazil. · Source

Elsewhere, call your local emergency number.