Stepping into your 30s often means balancing career growth, family life, and personal development. But another key aspect becomes even more important: your health. Regular medical check-ups are more important than ever in your 30s because they can help you detect potential health issues early, often leading to simpler and less expensive treatment.
However, knowing which screening tests are the most important in your 30s can be challenging. Furthermore, the cost of medical tests and healthcare can be daunting, especially when juggling other life expenses.
So in this guide, you’ll learn the essential medical tests in 30s and practical tips on how to make these more affordable in 2024.
9 Health Screenings You Should Take in Your 30s
Your health needs evolve as you navigate your 30s, so this decade is the perfect time to start regular health screenings that help monitor and maintain your well-being. The following nine tests are key to staying in the best condition as you juggle the demands of this phase of your life.
1. Heart Screenings
Heart screenings become increasingly important in your 30s since the risk for cardiovascular diseases begins to rise, often exacerbated by lifestyle and genetic factors. These tests can help detect early signs of heart conditions so you can make intervention and lifestyle adjustments to mitigate the long-term risk.
Regular heart screenings thus help you maintain cardiovascular health as you age and avoid more severe problems. They typically include four tests.
Blood Pressure Screenings
A blood pressure screening uses a cuff called a sphygmomanometer to measure the pressure in your arteries during each heartbeat. You need to regularly monitor your blood pressure in your 30s because this is a period when long-term stress, poor dietary habits, and decreased physical activity can begin to elevate blood pressure levels and lead to high blood pressure (hypertension).
Early detection of hypertension allows for timely interventions that can prevent more serious complications like heart disease and stroke later in life.
Cholesterol Screening
This blood test assesses the levels of various types of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. Your 30s often bring lifestyle changes that can affect dietary habits, potentially leading to higher bad cholesterol levels. Early identification of abnormal lipid levels (known as dyslipidemia) allows for dietary adjustments and interventions that can reduce heart disease risk.
Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG)
This quick test records the heart’s electrical activity with electrodes to identify any irregular heart rhythm or structure that might not yet show symptoms. Detecting these irregularities is crucial for preventive care in your 30s so you can make lifestyle adjustments or investigate further before any serious heart condition develops.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculation
While this test doesn’t directly measure your heart health, calculating BMI is important in your 30s to help track changes in body weight that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. A high BMI can be a precursor to conditions like heart disease and hypertension, so it’s important to monitor and manage weight during this decade.
2. Blood Glucose Test
A blood glucose test measures the amount of glucose, or sugar, in your blood to detect early signs of diabetes or prediabetes. It’s typically done through a blood sample and may be conducted as an overnight fasting blood glucose test or as part of an oral glucose tolerance test that measures response to sugar over several hours.
Understanding your blood glucose levels in your 30s is important because this is when early signs of glucose intolerance can start to appear. That means your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes increases, along with its associated complications such as:
- Heart disease
- Kidney damage
- Vision problems
Early detection through regular screenings can help you make timely lifestyle changes or get treatments that can dramatically reduce the progression of glucose-related issues and help you maintain optimal health.
3. Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer screening is very important in your 30s, especially if you have known risk factors like a family history of the disease or genetic predispositions. There are two common colon cancer screening methods:
- Colonoscopy: A physician uses a long, flexible tube with a camera to view the entire colon.
- Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT): A doctor checks stool samples for hidden blood indicative of cancer.
These screening tests can detect precancerous polyps or colon cancer at an early stage when it’s most treatable. Starting regular screenings in your 30s is a proactive approach that can lead to early detection and greatly improve survival rates.
4. Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer screenings are particularly recommended in your 30s if you have a significant history of smoking or exposure to lung carcinogens like radon or asbestos. This test primarily uses a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan, which uses X-rays to create detailed images of the lungs.
Lung cancer often shows no symptoms until it’s at an advanced stage. So early detection through LDCT scans can lead to earlier treatment, significantly improving the chances of survival, especially for those with high risk factors and lifestyle or environmental risks.
5. Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer screening is increasingly important in your 30s, especially if you’ve had a lot of sun exposure, use tanning beds, or have fair skin and a family history of skin cancer. A healthcare professional visually inspects the skin to look for changes in moles, freckles, or any new or unusual growths.
Catching skin cancer early—especially melanoma—can be life-saving since early-stage skin cancers are typically more treatable. Regular checks can help track changes in the skin’s appearance over time, making identifying potential issues early easier.
6. STD Testing
STD testing in your 30s helps in the early detection and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that may otherwise go unnoticed. Testing methods vary depending on the specific STDs but generally include blood tests, urine samples, or oral or genital swabs.
STD screening involves tests that check for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Depending on the specific STD being tested for, these tests can include various collection methods such as blood samples, urine samples, and oral swabs.
You can get tested for various sexually transmitted infections and diseases, including:
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea
- Herpes
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B and C
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Trichomoniasis (Trich)
Regular screening is crucial, especially if you have new or multiple partners. This is because many STDs don’t present immediate symptoms but can have long-term health consequences, including infertility, development of human immunodeficiency virus, and increased risk of certain cancers.
In your 30s, maintaining sexual health helps with prevention, prompt treatment, overall health, and ensuring the well-being of current and potential future partners.
7. Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer screening becomes more important as you age, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer or genetic markers like BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. The most common screening methods are mammograms (X-ray images of the breast) and breast MRIs, which are recommended for those at higher risk.
Healthcare professionals also typically conduct a clinical breast exam to inspect the breast for lumps or abnormalities manually. You can also do regular self-exams to check for any differences, lumps, or changes in shape or size.
Regular screening can detect breast cancer at an early stage when it’s most treatable. Even if routine mammograms aren’t yet recommended for all women in their 30s, you should discuss personalized screening plans with your healthcare provider if you have increased risk factors. This will ensure early detection and better management outcomes.
8. Cervical Cancer Screening (For Women)
Cervical cancer screening helps in the early detection of precancerous conditions and cervical cancer for women in their 30s. The primary screening methods include the Pap smear and the HPV test.
Also known as the Pap test, the Pap smear involves collecting cells from the cervix to look for precancerous or cancerous cells. On the other hand, the HPV test can identify the human papillomavirus that is the main cause of cervical cancer.
Regular screenings are recommended because cervical cancer typically develops slowly and is highly treatable when caught early. Women in their 30s should follow the clinical practice guidelines for frequency set by healthcare professionals, which usually involves a Pap smear every three years or co-testing with a Pap smear and HPV test every five years, depending on individual risk factors.
9. Prostate Cancer Screening (For Men)
Prostate cancer screening becomes a consideration for men particularly as they approach their 40s. However, those in their 30s with high risk factors such as a family history of prostate cancer or African-American heritage may need to start early.
The primary screening methods include:
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test: Measures for high levels of the protein PSA in the blood, as this can indicate prostate cancer or other prostate issues.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A healthcare provider feels the prostate gland through the rectum to check for any abnormalities.
Early detection through regular screening in high-risk individuals can be important because prostate cancer often develops without early symptoms and can be treated more effectively when identified at an early stage. You should discuss your risk factors and the potential benefits and risks of early screening with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision about when to begin testing.
5 Tips to Save Money on Health Screenings in 2024
Regular getting all these screenings can quickly add up, so you want to manage your healthcare costs effectively. Thankfully, there are five practical ways to reduce health screening costs in 2024 so you can stay proactive about your health without straining your budget.
1. Leverage Discount Health Plans
Discount health plans, like those offered by AmeriPlan, can be an effective way to save money on health screenings and other medical services. These plans work by giving members access to a network of healthcare providers offering services at discounted rates.
Unlike traditional insurance, they don’t pay for your healthcare costs. Instead, they reduce out-of-pocket fees and can even be used with insurance. Members pay a monthly or annual fee to get lower rates on everything from dental and vision care to prescription drugs and health screenings.
Start by researching plans with partnerships with a wide range of providers in your area. Consider which health services you use most frequently and verify that your chosen plan covers those services. Once you fill out your enrollment form and pay your fee, you’ll get discounted rates simply by showing your membership card to participating providers.
2. Utilize HSAs and FSAs
Health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) both use pre-tax dollars to pay for medical expenses, including health screenings. They help save money on screenings and reduce your taxable income. To effectively utilize these accounts, start by making sure you’re eligible and learning the contribution limits and roles.
HSAs are available for those with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) and allow you to save money free from federal taxes. The money in the account rolls over year after year, so it’s a great option for accumulating funds for future healthcare needs. To get the most out of an HSA, contribute regularly to your account and use the funds for qualifying medical expenses, including health screenings.
FSAs are similar, but you typically must use the funds within a year or lose them. Employers offer FSAs, and both employees and employers can contribute. To get the most out of FSAs, plan ahead to estimate your annual medical expenses since you must use most of what you contribute within the year. Keep all recipes and documentation for medical expenses so you can get reimbursed without issue.
3. Take Advantage of Preventive Care and Wellness Programs
Did you know that most insurance policies provide coverage for preventive care services, including those under the Affordable Care Act (ACA)? These programs are designed to prevent illnesses before they start through services like vaccinations, annual check-ups, and specific health screenings—all at no extra cost to you.
Additionally, some employers offer wellness programs that may include:
- Free or discounted health screenings
- Fitness program memberships
- Smoking cessation programs
These programs aim to improve employees’ overall health and reduce medical costs. Some insurance plans even offer discounts or incentives for participating in them!
To take full advantage of these offerings, check your health insurance policy details or speak with your insurance provider to understand what preventive services they cover and how often. Also, check in with your employer to ask if they provide wellness programs and what’s included.
Taking advantage of these provisions can help you catch health issues early and potentially reduce the need for more expensive tests later on, saving you hundreds and even thousands of dollars.
4. Try Community Health Centers or Clinics
Community health centers often provide services based on a sliding scale fee so your payments are based on your income. They often cover screenings and specialized tests, making them an excellent tool to save if you have limited or no insurance.
To use these services, search for local community health centers or public clinics in your area funded by state or federal health departments. Make an appointment and ask about the cost of services and any required documentation upfront.
5. Look for Financial Assistance Programs
Many hospitals, non-profit organizations, and health foundations offer financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of screenings, especially for low-income individuals or those without adequate insurance.
To take advantage of these programs, start by contacting local hospitals or clinics to inquire about available financial aid options. They often have dedicated staff to help patients navigate assistance eligibility. Be prepared to provide proof of income, residency, and other documentation as required
Some disease-specific organizations and patient advocacy groups may also offer subsidies or pay for screenings related to their focus, such as breast or prostate cancer. Researching and reaching out to these organizations and groups can provide financial relief and access to support networks and resources.
Get Affordable Quality Care with AmeriPlan
The best approach to managing your health and the expenses that come along with it combines awareness, prevention, and strategic planning. But investing in your health in your 30s doesn’t have to drain your finances. By following these five tips, you can get the screenings you need to detect and prevent serious health issues without breaking the bank.
One excellent strategy is using discount health plans, and AmeriPlan is here to help! Our Deluxe Plus Plan provides discounted health services and prescriptions so you can get the high-quality care you need at an affordable price.
Interested in learning more about how AmerPlan can help you save on health screenings and other medical services? Contact one of our AmeriPlan consultants today to see how we can tailor your plan to meet your healthcare and financial goals.
Key Takeaways on the Medical Tests You Should Take in Your 30s in 2024
- Regular medical testing in your 30s helps with early detection and prevention of developing common health issues, especially as your lifestyle and diet change.
- The nine health screenings you should take in your 30s are heart, blood glucose, colon cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, STD, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and prostate cancer screenings.
- You can reduce health screening costs through discount health plans, HSAs or FSAs, preventive care and wellness programs, community health centers or clinics, and financial assistance programs.