How to live a long, disease-free life? Expert says regular check-ups are step 1
New Delhi: In today’s fast-paced life, prioritizing health often takes a backseat amid busy schedules and work-related stress. Regular health check-ups are more than just a formality; they are crucial for detecting potential health issues early on, ensuring timely intervention and treatment. By scheduling these check-ups, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their health and enjoy a better quality of life. Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Lead Medical Advisor: of City X-Ray and Scan Clinic Founder and Partner: of City Imaging & Clinical Labs, stressed the importance of regular check-ups for all age groups.
Annual check-ups are recommended for individuals over 30 or those with pre-existing health conditions to closely monitor their health status and detect potential issues early. The frequency of full-body check-ups is determined by personal health factors and age. Adults under 30 with no significant health concerns may opt for a check-up every two to three years. Healthcare professionals may also recommend more frequent check-ups based on personal health.
Importance of Regular Health Check-Ups
- Preventive health check-ups are essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being.
- Among the many benefits, they help identify and address potential health concerns before they escalate, empowering individuals to adopt preventive measures and maintain overall well-being.
- Additionally, timely screenings enable the early detection of diseases, facilitating prompt intervention and increasing the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes. Moreover, by addressing health issues in their early stages, check-ups mitigate the need for extensive medical interventions, ultimately reducing healthcare expenses.
- Regular monitoring also ensures that any detected health issues are promptly managed, preventing their progression and minimising their impact on overall health.
- Early detection and intervention minimise the risk of complications during treatment, enhancing treatment efficacy and improving patient outcomes. Through proactive health management, regular check-ups contribute to a longer and healthier lifespan, enabling individuals to enjoy a higher quality of life for years.
- Finally, regular interaction with healthcare providers during check-ups allows individuals to stay informed about advancements in medical science, empowering them to make well-informed decisions about their health.
Key parameters that ought to be included in health screening packages to understand your overall health should essentially consist of tests capable of detecting potential irregularities. The list of tests includes a Complete Blood Count (CBC), Diabetes Panel, including HbA1c, Thyroid Panel, Liver Panel, Essential Nutrients assessment (such as vitamins B & D), Electrolytes Panel, and Bone Mineral Test (evaluating calcium and phosphorus levels)
Cancer Screening tests need to be a part of preventive health checks for the past 40 years, encompassing Mammograms & Pap smears for women, and PSA for men. Additionally, cardiac evaluation including echocardiography, TMT (Treadmill Test), and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) assessment can also be considered.
Maintaining overall health requires a multi-pronged approach, while getting necessary tests is crucial, lifestyle factors including diet, exercise, and sleep play a vital role in keeping you feeling your best. Diet and exercise are essential elements for maintaining a healthy weight, blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Focus on nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources, while limiting added sugars, sodium, and trans fats.
Sleep deprivation increases the risk of various health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night for adults.
Lastly, aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Consistency is key to long-term success. Taking charge of your health empowers you to prevent future problems and live a fulfilling life. By prioritising sleep, embracing a healthy lifestyle, and getting regular checkups, you can significantly contribute to your well-being.
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