A well-organized health calendar helps you keep up with your care, understand when to have important tests, pay closer attention to your body, and seek care when necessary. In 2026, creating a care routine is a way to respect your health, reduce delays in diagnosis, and strengthen the habit of regular follow-ups.

In this article, you will learn how to set up your health calendar for the whole year, focusing on essential exams, paying attention to your body's signals, and when to seek care at a Basic Health Unit (UBS).  

Why plan?

Planning your health routine helps you:

1. Don't forget important appointments and exams
   When we put everything down on paper or on our cell phones, it becomes easier to keep track of deadlines—especially exams that need to be done once a year. ‍
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2. Maintain a relationship of continuous care
   Health does not depend solely on a specific month or moments when something seems wrong. A calendar creates regularity and helps identify changes over time.
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3. Increase the chances of early diagnosis
   Breast cancer, for example, is more treatable when found early. A calendar helps avoid long intervals between exams and appointments.
   
4. Reduce anxiety and improvisation
   Planning is a way to provide clarity. You know when and where to seek care and can organize yourself with greater peace of mind.
   

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Recommended tests

Exams vary according to age, family history, symptoms, and medical advice. Here are general recommendations from institutions such as INCA, the Brazilian Society of Mastology, and Femama:

1. Mammogram (for women aged 40 and over)

Annual mammograms are recommended by the Brazilian Society of Mastology for women aged 40 and over.
It is the main test for early diagnosis of breast cancer, allowing changes to be identified even before they can be felt.

2. Clinical breast examination

Performed by a healthcare professional, usually at a UBS (Basic Health Unit), it is an important resource for assessing changes and guiding the need for additional tests.

3. Routine gynecological consultations

They include evaluation of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and breasts, as well as discussions about hormonal health, climacteric, and menopause.

4. Pap smear (cervical exam)

Recommended for women aged 25 to 64, every three years after two consecutive normal annual exams.

5. Blood tests and general health assessment

They may include:

• blood sugar

• cholesterol

• liver and kidney function

• vitamin D

• hormones (when indicated)

• other tests requested by healthcare professionals

6. Specific assessments by age group or risk

If you have a family history of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or other conditions, talk to your healthcare team to determine if additional tests are necessary.

Attention to the body

A health calendar is not just about appointments and tests. It also includes listening carefully to your own body.

Please note:

1. Changes in the breasts

Even if you are not experiencing pain, be aware of:

• nodules

• skin retractions

• format change

• spontaneous secretion

• nipple change

• persistent redness

• unusual swelling

Any persistent change should be evaluated.

2. General health changes

Including symptoms such as excessive tiredness, unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, or hormonal changes.

3. Menstrual cycle and associated symptoms

Changes in your cycle may be related to hormonal issues that warrant investigation.

4. Emotional well-being

Stress, anxiety, and exhaustion are also signs that something needs attention.

When to seek UBS

The Basic Health Unit is the gateway to the public health system and should be sought when you:

1. Notice something different about your breasts

Don't wait to get better on your own. The sooner you are evaluated, the faster care can begin.

2. Need a referral for tests

UBS may request mammograms, laboratory tests, specialist consultations, and ongoing monitoring.

3. You are behind on your exams.

Even if you don't feel anything, it's important to maintain your routine.

4. Want guidance on risk factors or family history

UBS professionals help identify which tests are most appropriate for your case.

5. Want to set up or review your health calendar

Bring written questions and see which exams should be included in your annual plan.

How to set up your calendar in 5 steps

1. Choose a format: paper, app, or digital planner
   Choose something you will actually use.
   
2. Make a note of your annual checkups
   Especially mammograms (from age 40), gynecology, Pap smears, and general exams. ‍
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3. Set a reminder every 3 months: "Observe your body."
   We know that habits require consistency.
   
4. Record symptoms, questions, or changes at
   . Take these notes to the UBS.
   
5. Review your schedule each semester
   Life changes—so does your health. Adjustments may be necessary.

Conclusion

A health calendar is a simple but powerful tool.
It helps you organize your routine, keep track of exams and appointments, observe changes in your body, and seek help at the right time.
In 2026, put your health on the agenda—and keep that commitment to yourself.

References

(INCA) National Cancer Institute. Recommendations for screening and early detection.
(SBM) Brazilian Society of Mastology. Guidelines for mammography and follow-up.
(Femama) Brazilian Federation of Philanthropic Institutions Supporting Breast Health. Educational and informational materials.