(Procedures)
What is Health Screening?
When should Health Screening be done?
What should I tell my doctor before Health Screening?
This page will help you learn about Health Screening based on age groups and how to prepare for it.
What is Health Screening?
Recommended health screening for each age group is essential, as they are specifically designed to meet the unique healthcare needs of each stage of life. Regular health screening plays a crucial role in preventing many diseases, allowing individuals to detect and manage potential health issues from childhood to old age before they progress into serious conditions.
When should Health Screening be done?
Children under 6 years:
During infancy and early childhood, regular paediatric health screening is essential for monitoring growth and development. Recommended health screening for this age group includes:
Oral and dental examination.
Vision and retinal screening.
Amblyopia (lazy eye) screening.
Hearing screening.
Visual acuity test.
Abdominal and hernia examination.
Hip examination.
Genital examination
Skin examination.
Newborn screening tests, typically conducted within the first few days of life, aim to detect rare and serious conditions. It is important to ensure these tests are done to identify any early signs of health issues.
The age of 6 to 17 years:
Doctors monitor growth and development through adolescence; this age group requires health screening that addresses their evolving healthcare needs and lifestyle factors. Recommended screenings include:
Obesity screening.
Oral health examination.
Hepatitis screening.
This health screening is required as determined by the physician.
Mental health consultations are also advised, as mental health assessments are crucial for identifying early symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other conditions. Timely detection allows for proper intervention and treatment. Adolescence is a critical period for mental health development, and early identification of mental health concerns can significantly improve outcomes.
The age of 18 to 59 years:
Regular health screening during adulthood becomes more important to detect and prevent chronic and age-related diseases. Based on specific age ranges and applicable to either or both genders, recommended examinations include:
Diabetes screening.
Starting at age 35.
Body mass index (BMI) assessment.
Blood pressure measurement.
Oral health examination.
Hepatitis screening
As determined by the physician.
Blood lipid level screening.
At age 35 for men and age 45 for women.
Mammogram.
Starting at age 40 for women.
Lung cancer screening.
Starting at age 50 for certain groups of smokers.
Cervical cancer screening.
Starting at age 21.
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening.
As determined by the physician.
Colorectal cancer screening.
Starting at age 40.
Regular health screening is essential for early detection, allowing timely intervention and effective management of any health concerns to prevent complications.
The age 60 and above:
As individuals age, their healthcare needs change, requiring specific medical check-ups tailored to detect age – related conditions and maintain overall well-being. The following examinations are advised based on particular ages and applicable to either or both genders:
Body mass index (BMI) assessment.
Blood pressure measurement.
Blood glucose screening.
Blood lipid level screening.
Mammogram.
Lung cancer screening.
Colorectal cancer screening
Osteoporosis screening.
For women aged 65 and older, or younger in certain cases.
Abdominal and pelvic ultrasound.
For male smokers aged 65 to 75.
Memory and Alzheimer's screening.
Early detection allows for timely intervention and support, improving quality of life and preventing complications. Cognitive screening is particularly important, as it can significantly impact daily functioning and the overall well-being of older adults.
It is important to undergo regular health screening, as they are essential for maintaining overall health at every stage of life. By adhering to the recommended screenings for each age group, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and effectively manage health issues.
– What should I tell my doctor before Health Screening?
Before undergoing medical check-ups, it is important to inform your doctor of the following to ensure accurate results and your safety:
List all the medications you are taking to the doctor.
Inform your doctor of any existing health conditions.
Mention any allergies you may have.