6 Affordable Health Checks You Should Do Every Year – Why They Are Important
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As people age, the need for more regular medical check-ups becomes very necessary. This is because the immune system begins to function less as people age. For example, people in their 20s, 30s, 40s and above cannot function at the same pace, or with the same kind of energy.
Health checks should be done at least twice a year; regular health checks can prevent many health problems. Some health problems start slowly and grow into big health issues as a result of not going for regular checks.
Here, I will share six affordable health checks everyone should do each year, and explain why they are important.
They include the following
- Blood Pressure Check
- Blood Sugar Test
- Cholesterol Test
- Eye Test
- Dental Check Up
- STIScreening
Now, let’s get to know these six affordable health checks everyone should do each year, and why it is important.
Blood Pressure Check
The blood pressure(BP) is one of the health issues that has caused the lives of many people. It can kill overnight, and even lead to a stroke that leaves a person paralysed for months or years. It is commonly referred to as high blood pressure and called the silent killer.
This health issue has no symptoms. Regular health checks are necessary to prevent more problems.
What To Do
- Go for regular checks once or twice
- Attend government hospitals, health outreaches to learn more
- Buy a home BP monitor
Blood Sugar Test
A blood sugar test is the best way to detect if a person has diabetes, because there are no clear symptoms for it at an early stage. Regular Health check prevents complications and help prevent the disease from growing into further types of diabetes, like type 2 diabetes.
What To Do
- If your family has a history of it, going for checks every 3-6 months is required, but for someone without the history, once a year is okay.
- For people who are overweight, regular checkups are important
- Avoid sugary foods or take them in moderation as often as possible.
3. Cholesterol Test
High cholesterol causes clogging of the arteries, leading to heart attacks and strokes. Consuming oily foods in high quantities and using unhealthy oils for frying can cause high cholesterol.
What To Do
- Do a cholesterol test every year
- Consuming less processed food and roadside food
- Buy good-quality oil and use it in moderation
Eye Test
The eyes are the most important part of the body because other parts depend so much on them. To cook food, wash clothes, go out, read, and bathe, you need eyes. Eye issues like glaucoma and cataracts can develop and become complicated if regular eye tests are ignored.
What To Do
- Go for an eye test at least once a year.
- Watch what you eat and add more onions and eggs to your diet, as they improve vision.
- When you notice any change, visit an optician for checks
Dental Check Up
If you have ever experienced a toothache or the removal of a tooth, then you will know it’s very painful and sometimes unbearable. Gum disease can affect the breath, infect cavities with germs, and cause mouth odour.
What To Do
- Avoid sugary snacks and gums, or take them in moderation
- Brush twice daily
- Visit the hospital for checks once or twice a year for cleaning and checks
STI Screening
There are so many ways one can contract infections these days. Sharing of sharp objects, shaving tools, etc, can cause infections. Sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea can cause much damage to the body’s immune system if not checked on time.
What To Do
- Use personal care tools and avoid sharing sharp objects, including toothbrushes, with others.
- Go for checks if you notice any unusual feeling
- Stick with one sexual partner
Conclusion
A healthy person can do anything; that’s why we say that health is wealth. When a person is healthy, they can work, spend time with family, and engage in activities. These health checks don’t cost much, but ignoring them in the long run might cost more than just money.
Your health is your greatest asset because everything else depends on it, which is why you need to prioritise staying fit. Maintaining a healthy diet and reducing junk food consumption is also important.