All articles
Lifestyle

Which Blood Tests or Health Screenings Should I Get to Track How Well I'm Aging?

Woman in her 50s reviewing health results with her provider on a tablet

Why Tracking Matters

Many age-related conditions—like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis—develop silently for years. Regular testing helps you catch changes early, when they're easiest to address.

Key Blood Tests

Metabolic health:

  • Hemoglobin A1c: Average blood sugar over three months
  • Fasting glucose and fasting insulin: Early signs of insulin resistance
  • Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP): Kidney and liver function, electrolytes

Heart health:

  • Lipid panel: LDL, HDL, triglycerides
  • ApoB: Number of cholesterol-carrying particles
  • Lipoprotein(a): Genetic heart risk factor—check at least once
  • hs-CRP: Marker of inflammation

Hormones:

  • Thyroid panel
  • Testosterone, estradiol, and SHBG as appropriate

Nutrients:

  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin B12 and folate
  • Ferritin and iron studies

General:

  • Complete blood count (CBC)

Key Health Screenings

  • Blood pressure: At least yearly, ideally checked at home too
  • Colorectal cancer screening: Starting at age 45 for average-risk adults
  • Breast cancer screening: Mammograms for women starting at 40
  • Cervical cancer screening for women as recommended
  • Prostate cancer screening: A discussion about PSA testing for men starting around 50 (earlier for higher risk)
  • Lung cancer screening: For adults 50–80 with a significant smoking history
  • Bone density (DEXA): Women 65+ and younger postmenopausal women with risk factors
  • Skin, eye, and hearing checks

Functional Markers of Aging

  • VO2 max or fitness level
  • Grip strength
  • Body composition (muscle vs. fat)
  • Balance and walking speed

How Often to Test

Many people benefit from a comprehensive panel at least once a year, with more frequent testing when making changes or managing a condition.

Learn more about comprehensive lab testing here: Heva Lab Testing

The Bottom Line

Tracking metabolic, heart, hormone, and nutrient markers—along with key screenings and fitness measures—gives you a clear picture of how you're aging and where to focus.

All articles