Annual Medical Checkup: Consider These Key Tests To Prioritise Your Health

Whether you are young or old, annual health checks are highly recommended. They are critical in detecting potential health problems and promoting overall well-being.

Annual health checkups can detect and prevent health problems before they become severe, as well as aid in early diagnosis and treatment.(Representational Image)

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As the saying goes, "health is wealth," and ensuring the well-being of your body should be a top priority.  An annual health checkup with your physician is essential for keeping track of your overall health. These checkups can detect and prevent health problems before they become severe and aid in early diagnosis and treatment.

Whether you are young or old, annual health checks are highly recommended. They are critical in detecting potential health problems and promoting overall well-being. It is not a one-time visit; rather, it is a continuous process of regularly monitoring your physical and mental health.

Prioritising a healthy body, according to Dr Vigyan Mishra, Chief of Lab, Neuberg Diagnostics, is essential for everyone. As a result, he strongly advised an annual check-up with a physician, even for those who believe they are in excellent health. This recommendation is especially important for those with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and a strong family history of cardiac disease. "Early detection of these lifestyle diseases can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. Sadly, the initial symptoms of these conditions are frequently ignored," he said. 

Dr. Mishra also advised considering some basic checkups during annual health checkups. 

Key Tests To Consider For Annual Health Medical Checkups:

1. Blood pressure measurement: Identifying hypertension early helps prevent heart disease and stroke.
2. Cholesterol screening: Regular lipid profile tests assess cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
3. Blood glucose test: Screening for blood sugar levels helps identify diabetes or prediabetes.
4. Complete blood count (CBC): Evaluates blood components, indicating conditions like anemia or infection.
5. Body mass index (BMI) calculation: Assess your body fat and risk of obesity-related diseases.
6. Bone density test: Important for assessing bone strength and identifying osteoporosis or osteopenia.
7. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the specific tests appropriate for you based on your individual health profile.

According to Dr Paritosh Baghel, Senior Consultant-Internal Medicine, SL Raheja Hospital, your annual health checkup should not be viewed as a routine appointment, but rather as an opportunity to prioritise your well-being and take proactive measures for your health. "Having specific tests performed during this checkup provides you with valuable information, allowing early detection of potential health issues and guiding you towards optimal wellness," he explained.

Dr Baghel emphasized the importance of considering additional tests, and these recommendations are based on individual risk factors.

Beyond The Standard Tests, Tests Recommended Based On Risk Factors:

1. Routine blood work: Crucial for individuals with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and a family history of cardiac disease.
2. A1C testing: Vital for diagnosing diabetes.
3. Lipid panel: Checks cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body.
4. Screening for bone health, cardiac, diabetes, and blood pressure: Provides insights into your current health status.

Comprehensive Key Points For Your Annual Health Checkup: 

During your annual health checkup, Dr Shrey Srivastav, Assistant Professor, Internal Medicine, Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida, emphasised the following key points:

Comprehensive Physical Examination: Your doctor evaluates vital signs, overall physical health, and discusses any symptoms or concerns, providing a baseline assessment for monitoring health and identifying red flags.

Blood Tests: Essential for determining cholesterol levels, blood sugar, liver and kidney function, and complete blood counts, providing insights into cardiovascular health, diabetes risk, liver and kidney function, and overall inflammatory status.

Cancer Screening: Mammograms, Pap smears, PSA tests, and colonoscopies may be recommended based on age, gender, and family history. Early detection improves cancer treatment outcomes.

Mental Health: Addressing emotional well-being with your healthcare provider ensures a holistic approach to your health.

Remember, prevention is key, and early detection can lead to better management of potential health concerns. Don't forget to discuss your emotional well-being during the checkup, ensuring a holistic approach to your health. Take charge of your well-being and invest in your health today for a healthier future.