TOP HEALTH SCREENINGS YOU SHOULDN’T SKIP ON WORLD HEALTH DAY 

Prevention is always better than treatment. Don’t wait until you’re feeling unwell—take a proactive approach and get yourself checked. Just as a car needs regular tune-ups to run smoothly, our bodies require the same level of attention. Ideally, everyone should have a check-up at least once a year. However, if you don’t have a personal or family history of any medical conditions and aren’t experiencing any symptoms, a check-up every two years is still a good way to stay informed about your body’s health and performance. Don’t delay—make these tests a priority for your well-being. 

In this blog, you will learn about essential health screenings you should never miss or delay. We will cover the details of each test, including their indications, preparation, and the appropriate screenings for different age groups and genders. By staying informed, you can take proactive steps toward maintaining your health, catching potential issues early, and preventing serious conditions from developing. 

General Health Screenings

Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a serious, yet subtle condition. Often referred to as the “silent killer,” that typically shows no symptoms but can lead to severe complications such as kidney failure, cardiovascular problems, or brain hemorrhages. 

Recommend Frequency for Blood Pressure test:  

*Risk factors  include Obesity, smoking habits, diabetes, a family history of hypertension or heart disease, chronic kidney disease, or stroke, blood pressure 

Blood Sugar Test

The blood sugar test measures how efficiently your body processes sugar after eating. A normal result should be below 125 mg/dL (random blood sugar test). If the result is higher, or if you have a history of gestational diabetes, a family history of diabetes, or known metabolic disorders, more specific tests like fasting blood sugar, glucose tolerance test, or HbA1c may be recommended.  

Recommend Frequency for Blood Sugar testing:

*Risk factors  include Overweight or obesity, Family history of diabetes, Sedentary lifestyle, History of prediabetes, High blood pressure (BP ≥ 190/90), History of gestational diabetes, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Very high triglyceride levels 

Lipid Profile

The cholesterol test assesses cholesterol and fat levels in your blood, providing insight into the amount of fat accumulated in your blood vessels. High levels of fat can lead to serious complications, such as stroke, heart attack, or vessel blockage. 
Ideally, total cholesterol should be Below 5 mmol/L.  

Recommend Frequency for Lipid Profile test: 

*Risk factors include family history of cardiovascular disease 

Regular cholesterol checks are essential for maintaining heart health and preventing potentially dangerous conditions. 

Vision Assessment 

Vision Assessment has become a crucial part of health screenings these days and are important because they help us identify: 

• Detect Refractive Errors: Vision assessments help identify issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism—conditions increasingly common due to prolonged screen time. 

• Fundus Examination: The fundus (back of the eye) is often considered a “mirror of the brain.” It can reveal signs of increased intracranial pressure, an early warning for serious neurological conditions. It also detects damage to eye blood vessels, often caused by conditions like diabetes. 

Recommended Frequency for Vision Assessment: 

If necessary: More frequent visits may be recommended by your doctor based on your assessment. 

Regular eye exams not only help maintain good vision but can also uncover underlying health issues, making them an essential part of your healthcare routine. 

Dental Checkup 

Many people suffer from headaches and undergo costly, extensive tests to explore numerous causes, all while stressing over worst-case scenarios. The truth is, the issue could be something as simple as not visiting the dentist for a while. 
Regular dental checkups can save you from both physical and mental stress. They help maintain oral health, detect issues before they become painful, and prevent complications like gum disease or infections that could spread to your bloodstream and even affect your heart.  

Recommended Frequency for Dental Checkup: 

We’re here to guide you and help mitigate any symptoms or complications along the way. 

Mental Health Assessment

The hardships of daily life can take a toll on mental health. Everyone responds differently to challenges, and sometimes, overcoming them requires strength and courage that may need professional support. This strain can lead to conditions like PTSD, depression, and many others. Regular visits to a psychiatrist, along with mental health assessments, can help maintain your well-being. These checkups offer valuable strategies to build resilience, live a happier life, and prevent potential mental health crises. 

Recommended Frequency for Mental Health Assessment: 

At least once a year, you should take the time to release mental stress and refresh your mindset to better cope with life’s challenges. If more frequent visits are necessary, your doctor will advise you after the initial consultation and assessment. 

Checkups for Those 40 and Above

We agree that age is just a number, but every age requires its own unique care. As you reach your 40s and beyond, regular checkups become essential for maintaining your health. Based on your medical history, general health, and your doctor’s recommendations, here are some key checkups to consider: 

For Women

Breast Cancer Screening 

With breast cancer being a growing global health concern, regular screenings are essential for all women, particularly those at higher risk. 

Recommended Frequency for Breast cancer Screening: 

Cervical Cancer Screenings

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. 

Recommended Frequency for Cervical cancer Screening:  

Pap Smear (Pap Test): A routine test to collect cells from the cervix and check for precancerous changes and cervical cancer. 

For Men 

Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer typically develops slowly and may not show symptoms in its early stages. However, as it progresses, it can cause symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, or pain in the back or hips. 

Recommended Frequency for Prostate cancer Screening: 

*Individuals with high risk includes who have a first-degree relative (father, brother) with prostate cancer, have at least two extended family members with prostate cancer, are African-American, as they are at higher risk for aggressive prostate cancer. 

PSA Test: A blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen to detect potential issues with the prostate gland. 

Colon Cancer Screening 

Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but it is also one of the most preventable through regular screening. Early detection of abnormal growths, such as polyps, can help prevent them from developing into cancer. 

Recommended Frequency for Prostate cancer Screening: 

Colonoscopy: A procedure using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon and rectum. It allows for the removal of polyps, which can help reduce cancer risk.   

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): A non-invasive test that checks for hidden blood in the stool. 

Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Like the FOBT, this test checks for hidden blood in the stool. 

Bone Density 

As we age, particularly after 60, bone density naturally decreases due to the body’s reduced ability to absorb minerals and build strong bones. This makes it essential to undergo a bone density assessment. 

Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) is a special type of X-ray that provides detailed images of your bones to detect any issues early. 

Fracture Risk Assessment with tools like FRAX can estimate the 10-year probability of hip and other major osteoporotic fractures based on various risk factors, helping to assess the need for treatment. 

Lab Tests such as blood tests to check calcium, vitamin D levels, and hormone levels may be conducted to identify underlying causes of bone loss. 

Recommended Frequency for Bone Density Screening: 

Risk factors includes Family history of osteoporosis or fractures, Low body weight, Smoking or heavy alcohol use, Certain medical conditions or medications that affect bone health (e.g., corticosteroids) 

Conclusion

Regular screenings can help catch health issues early, leading to better outcomes and a healthier life. Always consult your doctor for personalized recommendations based on your gender, ethnicity, age, health status, and family history.