8 health checks you shouldn't skip between 40-50

 

In short There are several important health checks police aged 40-50 should consider. As always, early intervention is the key.

On this page

1. Why you should get regular health checks
2. Heart health
3. Diabetes
4. Bowel cancer
5. Breast cancer
6. Prostate cancer
7. Eyesight and vision
8. Non-age specific checks 

Are you aged 40-50? Now's a good time to get your health checked

Police aged 40–50 should prioritise regular health checks. Your roles are demanding, very stressful, you work irregular hours, and the physical strain can increase the risk of illness and chronic conditions. 

Routine health checks help catch potential issues early, when they’re easier to manage. This will support your long-term health and help you to perform at your best, both on and off duty. 

Though not an exhaustive list, the suggested health checks below are a good place to start when trying to keep on top of your health if you’re aged between 40-50. 

Heart health check

If you are aged 45 and over and do not already have heart disease, you are eligible for an annual Heart Health Check under Medicare.  

Some people may be eligible earlier, including at age 30  for First Nations peoples, and age 35 if you are living with diabetes. It's a 20-minute check-up with your GP, and helps you understand your chance of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 5 years. 

They'll ask you some questions, check your blood pressure and get you to do a blood test for cholesterol and blood sugar levels. 

That will show your GP your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the next five years. If required, your GP will advise you about what steps to take next. To arrange a heart heath check, book an appointment with your GP. 

Diabetes screening

Police are at greater risk of type 2 diabetes. If you're aged 40-49, or 15-54 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it's a good time to use the Australian type 2 diabetes risk assessment tool (AUSDRISK). 

It's a short list of questions to help both health professionals and individuals assess the risk of a person developing type 2 diabetes. 

It's good to do this test at this time in your life because if you get a ‘high’ score, you're eligible to attend a type 2 diabetes risk evaluation by your GP. 

For more information about how to take the AUSDRISK, visit the Federal Department of Health's website. 

If you have type 2 diabetes, you may eligible for our Prima Type 2 Diabetes Program. Terms and conditions, and eligibility requirements apply. Click here for more information. 

Bowel cancer and recent changes

Did you know that since 1 July 2024, it's recommended Australians aged 45 screen for bowel cancer? It used to be 50, and getting tested earlier means you have a better chance a detecting bowel cancer. 

That's extra important because Bowel Cancer often develops without any symptoms. The cancer can grow in the bowel for years before spreading to other parts of the body. 

How to do the screening

The Federal Government's National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) gives eligible people a free, simple test that is done at home. 

Its aim is early detection of the disease to improve outcomes. Here's how you do it; 

• Once you're 45, request your first bowel cancer screening kit by submitting this webform or calling 1800 627 701
• You can also ask your doctor about getting a kit 

For more information, visit the NBCSP website. 

Police Health can help

If you're younger than 45 or want to test for bowel cancer more regularly, Police Health can help. Our Gold Hospital cover and Gold Combined cover pays 100% of the cost, up to a maximum of $35.

This is limited to 1 per person per year, terms and conditions and waiting periods may apply – find more information on our health insurance page. 

This is something you may also want to talk to your GP or a health professional about. 

Breast screening service

Women aged 40-49 who have no breast cancer symptoms can receive a free breast cancer screen (mammogram) through the BreastScreen Australia Program. 

Also, your state-based service will send you a letter to invite you for a free mammogram every 2 years if you: 

• Are a woman
• Are aged between 50 and 74 years of age. 

There are over 750 locations across Australia where you can get a breast screen. To make an appointment for a free mammogram, contact BreastScreen Australia in your state or territory.  

Prostate cancer testing

Recent research found that Police are at greater risk of prostate cancer. It's also the most common cancer in Australian men. Each year, approximately 24,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and around 3,500 will die from it. 

Current advice says men should discuss prostate checks with their GP when they’re 50. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, this should start between 40-45. 

As of July 2025, there's no current government-sponsored prostate screening program so it’s best to speak to your GP in the first instance. 

For more information about symptoms and what to do next, read this helpful guide from GenesisCare. 

Get your eyes checked

If you're reading this there are two factors that put you at higher risk of your eyes deteriorating; 

• You're 40 or over
• You work in policing 

The good news is that an eye test is a quick and painless way that may help you not lose your vision, and identify the early signs of conditions like Glaucoma. 

To maintain better eye and vision health, Glaucoma Australia recommends visiting an eye health professional every two years for a comprehensive eye exam for those aged 50 and over.  

If you have a family history of glaucoma, get your eyes checked every two years from the age of 40. 

Book an eye test with one of the many optometrists throughout Australia, including OPSM, Laubman & Pank, Specsavers, Bailey Nelson and more. It's an important step in protecting your vision. 

Non age-based health checks

Of course, there are things you should get checked no matter what stage you're at in your adult life. Her are some suggestions. 

• Dental – going to the dentist 1-2 times per year can help prevent major dental problems
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) – If you're sexually active, you should get tested regularly for STIs
• Mental health – Address your concerns early through a range of support services