Most people do not see the need to see a doctor when they aren’t feeling unwell, but experts suggest that getting an annual body check is important. Studies show that about 63% of heart attacks are avoidable with proper preventive care.
About 94% of primary care doctors also believe that getting annual body checks promotes preventive healthcare and fosters better relationships between the doctor and patient.
If you are considering an annual body check, below is information on why you should get the check, who needs it and what to expect during your annual body check.
Who needs a body check?
The recommendations for a body check differs depending on age, medication condition and the medical provider. However, adults above 18 years need a body check every 1 – 5 years. Younger adults with no existing health issues may not need regular body checks, but getting checked more often as they grow older is advisable.
Ageing affects the heart and other vital organs functions, and studies have confirmed that lung and heart function decrease as you age. This makes getting a complete body check up important.
Below is a general recommendation for body checks depending on age.
- 20 – 30- every five years
- 31 – 39- every three years
- 40 – 44-every two years
- 45 and above- every year
People with no existing health issues may require more frequent body checks. For example, people with diabetes need to see their doctor every six months to monitor their blood sugar, vision, cardiovascular health and other important checks. Ensure you consult your doctor to know how often you need health checks, depending on your situation.
What does a body check involve?
Your full health check up will likely include the following.
-
Initial consultation
The doctor will start the health check by asking questions about your medical history, family history, lifestyle and other important things to know you better. During the consultation, you can share your concerns and ask questions about your health.
-
Vital checks
The doctor will check your temperature, heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory check. This will give an idea about your general health.
-
Physical examination
The routine examination will cover your lungs (respiratory system), heart (cardiovascular system), reflexes and muscle strength (nervous system), vision, sensations, skin and stomach. You may also get a genital and breast exam.
-
Medical tests
Your doctor may order blood tests such as liver function tests, hepatitis check, urine check, lipid profile, kidney function tests, diabetes check (HbA1C and blood sugar) and other checks depending on your health issues and symptoms. You may also have an ECG of the heart, chest x-ray and other necessary imaging tests.
-
Follow-up appointment
The turnaround time for the test results vary, but your doctor will inform you when to come back to review your results. The doctor will go through your results and give recommendations, depending on the findings.
Why do you need a body check?
Below are some benefits of regular complete health checks.
-
Reduce expenditure on healthcare body check
Healthcare is quite expensive, especially conditions that health insurance does not cover. With a regular health check, you can detect conditions early or identify signs before the onset of a condition. This makes treatment easier and less expensive, reducing medical expenditure in the long run.
A study found that people who get health checks often had a reduced need for follow-ups, and the cost of early-stage cancer treatment is less than treatment carried at stage four.
-
Improve the success rate of treatment
Getting treatment early increases the chances of survival, and research shows that people diagnosed with cancer early are more likely to live five years longer. For most common diseases, the chances of successful treatment are much higher when the condition is diagnosed early.
Proper screening can help in diagnosing the following conditions early.
- Breast cancer
- Colon cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Diabetes
- Prostate cancer
- HIV
- Thyroid issues such as hypo- and hyperthyroidism
- Osteoporosis
- Hormonal issues
- Sexual issues
- Lung cancer and other lung diseases
- High blood pressure
- Vitamin and mineral deficiency
- Psychological health issues such as depression
- Health issues such as high cholesterol, irregular heartbeat and narrowed blood vessels
- Hepatitis and other liver issues
-
Make better lifestyle choices
Your habits play a vital role in helping you to live longer. When you get regular health checks and proper consultations, you better understand your physical condition and record your medical history. Giving this information to professionals can help you receive better-tailored lifestyle recommendations to take control of your health.
-
Update on vaccinations
Regular health checks will help you get up-to-date on different vaccines. These vaccines include:
- Influenza vaccine
- Hepatitis vaccine
- Tetanus vaccine
- HPV vaccine
Taking proper care of your health involves taking different steps which ensure you remain healthy. If you want to undergo a health check and need a clinic offering comprehensive health check up package, visit Private Blood Tests London or call us on 020 7183 0244 to schedule an appointment.
