Routine Screening

The HPV cervical screening test detects the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the cervix and identifies high-risk strains. The new molecular test has a sensitivity of about 92% and enables early detection of precancerous lesions and cervical cancer.

The HPV PCR cervical screen replaces the traditional Pap smear test. The test involves taking a cervical sample performed by a physician.

When should the test be done?

- Women ages 25 to 54 – once every three years.
- Women in high-risk groups – according to physician’s recommendation.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Israel: about 5,500 new cases are diagnosed each year. The incidence increases with age, but the disease can also appear in younger women.

When detected early, breast cancer has one of the highest survival rates in modern medicine – over 90%. Mammography can identify breast tissue changes before they can be felt.

When should the test be done?

Women ages 50–74: every two years, free of charge.

Women with a first-degree relative with breast cancer: annually from age 40, or 10 years before the relative’s diagnosis (whichever is earlier).

For more information

Women of Ashkenazi or Ethiopian origin (partially or fully, from either parent/grandparent), are eligibile for a genetic screening test to detect mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
These mutations significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and may also raise the risk of pancreatic cancer and, to a lesser extent, colon cancer.

The test is performed with a simple blood test, after an appointment with a genetic counselor and completing a family history questionnaire. Results are usually received within a few weeks.

If a positive result is found (mutation present), additional tests and preventive measures will be recommended, aimed at reducing the risk, monitoring, and treatment.

When should the test be done?

The test can be done at any age.

Important to know

The test checks for genetic mutations only. A positive result does not necessarily mean that cancer will develop.

In most cases, breast and ovarian cancers are not caused by hereditary mutations, and therefore ongoing screening and monitoring should continue according to general guidelines.

An abdominal ultrasound is designed to detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) – an abnormal widening of the body’s main blood vessel in the abdomen.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm may remain without symptoms for years, but there is a risk of sudden rupture, a life-threatening condition. Ultrasound is quick, non-invasive, radiation-free, and allows for early detection.

When should the test be done?

Recommended for men aged 65–75 who are current or former smokers – one-time test.

For women, the risk is significantly lower, so routine screening is not recommended. However, in cases of family history of aneurysm or additional risk factors, the test can be considered based on medical judgment.

Excess weight and obesity increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Weight is measured during routine visits with the family physician.

When should the test be done?

Every two years until age 19.

According to clinical judgment between ages 20 and 65.

Once a year after age 65.

High blood pressure (also called hypertension) indicates increased resistance in the body’s arteries and can accelerate the process of atherosclerosis.

If atherosclerosis is not diagnosed and treated in time, it may progress to severe or complete blockage of the arteries and cause damage to the organs they supply. This can lead to problems such as impaired mobility and walking, reduced vision up to blindness, decreased kidney function, stroke, and heart attack.

Low blood pressure, however, is not considered a disease.

The test is performed by a simple measurement at the physician’s or nurse’s office.

When should the test be done?

Children – in risk groups.

Age 16 or 17 – before military enlistment.

Ages 20–29 – once every 5 years.

Ages 30–39 – once every 3 years.

Ages 40–65 – once every 1–2 years, depending on results.

Over 65 – once every 1–2 years, depending on results.

If cardiovascular risk factors are present – once a year.

This test measures the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides and “bad cholesterol” (LDL) can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, and therefore high levels require medical attention.

It is a simple blood test, usually requiring fasting for 8–12 hours beforehand.

When should the test be done?

From age 35 – once every five years.

Over age 65 – a one-time test for cholesterol and HDL.

Type 2 diabetes has become an epidemic of modern life, influenced by obesity, high sugar consumption, and lack of physical activity.

Diabetes causes damage to various organs – the heart, brain, eyes, kidneys, and peripheral blood vessels.

Frequent urination, increasing thirst, and tingling sensations in the extremities may indicate developing diabetes. However, a simple blood test – a fasting blood sugar test after 8 hours of fasting – can detect it even before the first symptoms appear.

When should the test be done?

Ages 35 to 70, for risk groups.

According to the Israel Cancer Association, colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer among the population in Israel, occurring at similar rates in both men and women. Each year, about 3,200 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed in Israel, across all ages. Colorectal cancer is especially common after age 50. Detecting the disease at an early stage increases the chances of recovery to about 90%.

The test is performed by providing a stool sample to the laboratory using a special kit.
(Additional information is available via the provided link.)

When should the test be done?

Ages 50–75: once a year.

A test designed to detect colorectal cancer. This is an invasive test in which a tube is inserted through the rectum for visual examination.

When should the test be done?

Recommended from age 50, or earlier based on consultation with a family physician.

Clients at high risk of developing colorectal cancer should consult their physician.

A bone density test is designed to diagnose osteoporosis – a condition in which bones become weak and fracture easily.

The test is performed using a low-dose X-ray imaging device (DEXA). It is painless and takes only a short time.

Osteoporosis is most common among women after menopause or in certain medical conditions.

When should the test be done?

Women from age 65 and men from age 70 – once every 5 years, or earlier if risk factors exist.

Men and women from age 50 with increased risk (previous fracture, steroid treatment, family history, low body weight) – according to physician’s recommendation.

A low-dose chest CT scan is an advanced imaging test that enables the detection of small nodules in the lungs at early stages of lung cancer.

The test is intended for current heavy smokers or for those who quit smoking within the past 15 years.

When should the test be done?

Women and men ages 50–80 who are current or former smokers with a history of at least 20 pack-years.

The decision to perform the test should be made in consultation with a family physician, since it is not intended for the general population.

At present, the test is not included in the Government Health Basket, but specific programs and private testing are available.

It is important to undergo regular vision tests in order to detect nearsightedness, farsightedness, or other vision problems that may affect learning, driving, and quality of life.

When should the test be done?

Adolescents without prior vision problems – every 2–3 years.

Adolescents who wear glasses or contact lenses – every 1–2 years to monitor changes in prescription.

Up to age 40 – every 5–10 years if no complaints.

Ages 40–54 – every 2–4 years.

Ages 55–64 – every 1–3 years.

Age 65 and older – annually.

In any case of decreased vision, headaches, or difficulty reading – an immediate test is recommended.

An eye exam by an ophthalmologist includes a retinal (fundus) examination, which can detect early signs of diseases such as glaucoma, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

When should the test be done?

Up to age 40 – at least one exam, even if there are no problems.

Ages 40–65 – once every two years.

Age 65 and older – once a year.

If risk factors exist, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease – exams should begin earlier and be performed more frequently (sometimes once a year).

The appearance of symptoms such as sudden vision loss, eye pain, or double vision requires an immediate exam.

A skin exam involves evaluating moles and skin spots with a dermatoscope by a dermatologist, to determine which require further examination. A suspicious mole may be referred for biopsy and pathological testing to determine whether it is cancerous.

Follow-up treatment will be determined based on the findings.

When should the test be done?

It is recommended to see a dermatologist once a year at any age, for a routine mole check.

A visit to a dentist and dental hygienist is essential for maintaining oral health. These exams can detect potential problems such as cavities or gum disease at an early stage, before they become complicated and cause health damage.

When should the test be done?

A dental exam should be performed once a year, starting from the eruption of the first teeth.

For more information

A blood test that measures the level of Lipoprotein(a), an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Elevated values may indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis and stroke, even if other lipid tests are normal.

It is a simple laboratory blood test.

When should the test be done?

From age 35 – recommended at least once in a lifetime.

An ECG test examines the electrical activity of the heart and can detect arrhythmias, evidence of a past heart attack, or other changes in heart function.

Electrodes are placed on the chest and limbs, and the ECG machine records the heart’s activity. The test is quick, non-invasive, and painless.

When should the test be done?

Ages 40 to 64 – once in a lifetime, as a baseline test for future comparison.

A short questionnaire or a conversation with a family physician or healthcare professional. The purpose is to identify early signs of depression, suicidal tendencies, or exposure to domestic violence.

When should the test be done?

At any age, according to medical judgment, and especially during adolescence, pregnancy, and periods of increased risk.

A structured tool for assessing the health, emotional, and social status of adolescents. HEADSS covers: Home, Education/Employment, Activities, Drugs, Sexuality, Suicide/Depression, through a personal and confidential interview with the physician.

When should the test be done?

For girls and boys ages 13 to 19, as needed, as part of routine health monitoring.

• HPV (Human Papillomavirus) – Protects against the papillomavirus, which can cause cervical, anal, vulvar, and vaginal cancers. Administered in 8th grade; can be completed up to age 26 under the Government Health Basket, and thereafter privately.
• Seasonal Influenza – Prevents flu and its complications, especially in high-risk groups. Recommended once a year for the entire population, from 6 months of age and older.
• COVID-19 – Protects against infection and severe illness. Administered according to Ministry of Health guidelines, usually once per season, with emphasis on high-risk populations.
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap/Td) – Protects against life-threatening bacterial diseases. Recommended every 10 years for the entire population; in addition, a pertussis booster is recommended during every pregnancy (weeks 27–36).
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – Prevents viral infections and congenital defects. Recommended for women ages 18–45 who are not vaccinated, before pregnancy.
• Varicella (Chickenpox) – Prevents complications in women who are not immune. Recommended for women of childbearing age (not during pregnancy) who have not been vaccinated, and for household members of immunocompromised individuals.
• Pneumococcal – Protects against pneumonia and severe bacterial infections. Recommended for everyone age 65 and older; also for younger individuals in risk groups (lung disease, heart disease, immunocompromised).
• Meningococcal – Protects against meningitis and rare but severe bacterial infections. Recommended for risk groups (asplenia, immunocompromised, travelers to endemic countries).
• HiB (Haemophilus influenzae type B) – Protects against meningitis and severe bacterial infections. Recommended only for risk groups.
• Hepatitis B – Prevents viral liver infection, chronic complications, and liver cancer. Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals, especially risk groups (healthcare workers, household contacts of carriers, high-risk patients).
• Hepatitis A – Prevents viral liver infection. Recommended for travelers to endemic regions, injection drug users, men who have sex with men, and anyone interested.
• Herpes Zoster (Shingles) – Prevents recurrence of chickenpox in older adults. Recommended from age 60 and above (included in the Government Health Basket); available from age 50 under supplementary insurance plans.