One of the most important aspects of our life – our health is often overlooked by us due to our busy lifestyle. Since our health and well-being majorly impact our life, it is better to start investing in it from a young age. 

Prevention is the key to good health. Adopting healthy habits in the early years enables an individual to enjoy a longer and happier life. Regular preventive health check-ups play a vital role in keeping a check on the potentially serious health problems, along with helping people stay aligned with their health goals. 

Dr. Jyoti Goyal – HOD, Internal Medicine at Nayati Medicity elaborates upon the importance of getting regular health check-ups:

When to start getting a health check-up?

 Periodic health check visits are recommended every three years for adults under 49 years of age without chronic conditions, and annually for those over 50 years of age. Preventive counselling are an important component of the periodic health check-up. 

Which tests should one undergo in a health check-up?

Routine blood tests which includes complete blood count, kidney function, liver function, blood sugar, thyroid testing, lipid profile, urine routine along with some tests like X-Ray, Sonography, ECG and Echo should be done as a part of preventive health check. it is recommended to have Dexascan, Pap smear and Mammography for women, PSA for men – to detect cancer at an early stage. It’s also recommended to get your vitamin d and b12 levels checked.

Screening and prevention of cardiovascular diseases, cancers, psychosocial disorders like depression, osteoporosis and sexually transmitted diseases are part of preventive health checks. Adult immunization constitute very important part of preventive care medicine.

Advantages of regular health check-ups

Regular health check-ups offer several benefits. They can help you know more about your health needs, and identify some potential health risk factors where you can make improvements. It may also make you more likely to feel comfortable talking openly with your physician, and participate actively in making decisions about your health.