Preventive check-ups and screening: what you need, and when

Screening tests look for health problems before you have symptoms, when they are easier to treat. Ontario runs free screening programs, but they work best when someone keeps track of what you're due for. That is a large part of what a family doctor does.

This guide covers people at average risk. If you have a strong family history or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting earlier or testing more often.

Cancer screening in Ontario

Cervical cancer. People with a cervix aged 25 to 69 should have an HPV test every 5 years. It checks for the types of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer.

Breast cancer. Women aged 40 to 74 can have a mammogram, usually every 2 years, through the Ontario Breast Screening Program. People at high risk may qualify for yearly screening starting earlier.

Colon cancer. People aged 50 to 74 at average risk should do a FIT (fecal immunochemical test) every 2 years. It is a simple at-home stool test. If a parent, brother, sister or child has had colon cancer, ask about a colonoscopy instead.

Lung cancer. People aged 55 to 74 who have smoked daily for many years may qualify for a low-dose CT scan through the Ontario Lung Screening Program. Ask your doctor whether you are eligible.

Other regular checks

Your family doctor will also look at:

• Blood pressure, at least every few years, and more often if it is high.
• Diabetes risk, with a blood test if you have risk factors. People of South Asian descent have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and may be tested earlier.
• Cholesterol, to assess your risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Vaccines, including flu, COVID-19, tetanus boosters, shingles and pneumococcal vaccines as you get older.
• Bone health, for older adults at risk of osteoporosis.

For children

Children need regular well-baby and well-child visits to track growth and development, and to stay on schedule with Ontario's routine vaccines.

Why a family doctor makes the difference

Without a regular doctor, screening is easy to miss. Studies in Ontario show people without a family doctor are screened for cancer less often. A family doctor keeps your results in one record, reminds you when tests are due, and follows up if something needs a closer look.

Book a check-up

If you're a Kennedy Medical Centre patient, call 905-459-4385 to book a check-up and ask what screening you're due for.

If you don't have a family doctor yet, we are accepting new patients. Apply online and our staff will call you within 48 hours.