Health screening is an effective way to detect a specific disease or condition early, even when there have been symptoms or signs of the disease.
Importance of screening
Early detection of disease may result in better treatment and management, which reduces the risk of complications whilst increasing the chances of better health outcomes.
List of some of the common tests conducted at a health screening
Cholesterol
High cholesterol usually causes no signs or symptoms. A complete cholesterol test is done to determine whether your cholesterol is high and estimate your risk of developing heart attacks and other forms of heart disease and disease of blood vessels.
High blood pressure
You should have a blood pressure test performed atleast once every two years to screen for high blood pressure as a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, starting at age 18.If you’re age 40 or older or if you’re 18 to 39 with high risk of high blood pressure, ask your doctor for a blood pressure reading every year.
Heart disease
It’s important to remember that one blood test alone dosesn’t determine your risk of heart disease.The most important risk factors for heart disease are ssmoking ,high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Diabetes
If uncontrolled, diabetes can damage your heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves. This is why it is so important to get screened for diabetes and take steps to prevent it if you are identified to be at increased risk.
Mammograms, Osteoporosis and Pap Smear Tests
These tests are undertaken to prevent cervical cancers and breast cancers, as well as other disorders that affect women.
Prostate Cancer Tests
Men must get themselves tested for prostate cancer if they are obese, have higher levels of testosterone and/or are over 50 years of age.