Is It Time For A Full Body Checkup?
In today’s fast-paced world, many people in Singapore often neglect regular health screenings until something feels wrong. Yet, doctors consistently emphasise that prevention is better than cure. A full body checkup is a useful way to detect potential health issues early, giving you the best chance to address them before they become serious. Regular health screenings should be a cornerstone of preventive healthcare and should be tailored to your age group and risk profile.
Why Should You Go For A Full Body Checkup?
A full body checkup typically involves a broad assessment of your overall health, including blood tests, imaging, and physical examinations. The main goal is early detection of chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
Many conditions—like hypertension or high cholesterol—are often “silent” in the early stages. Without regular screening, they can go unnoticed until complications arise. A checkup not only uncovers hidden health risks but also provides peace of mind and guidance for healthier lifestyle choices.
Additionally, many corporate health insurance plans and medical benefit programmes in Singapore encourage routine screenings, recognising their long-term value in keeping employees healthy and productive.
Explore AsiaMedic’s Health Screening Packages
What Are Health Screening Recommendations By Age Group?
Aged 40 And Below
For people aged 40 and below, the focus is largely on maintaining wellness and identifying lifestyle-related risks early. At this stage of life, people are generally healthy, but habits such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress can gradually increase health risks.
Recommended screenings include:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) and Blood Pressure: To monitor for obesity and hypertension.
- Blood Glucose Test: Especially for those with family history of diabetes.
- Cholesterol Profile: If risk factors are present (e.g., family history, smoking, obesity).
- Sexual Health Screenings: Where appropriate, based on individual risk factors
Doctors often advise this group to build strong preventive habits early, as it sets the foundation for long-term health.
Ages 40 To 49
This is the transitional period when risk of chronic diseases begins to rise more sharply. A full body checkup is particularly valuable here, as early intervention makes a huge difference in outcomes.
Recommended screenings include:
- Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Regularly, even if no symptoms exist.
- Blood Glucose: Every three years, or more frequently if overweight or with family history.
- Cancer Screening: Women should start mammograms from age 40, once every two years.
- Colorectal Screening: From age 45 onwards, via stool tests or colonoscopy depending on risk profile.
At this stage, doctors would encourage Singaporeans to take screenings seriously, as this is often when “silent” conditions start emerging.
Ages 50 And Above
For those aged 50 and above, a full body checkup becomes even more crucial, as health risks increase with age. Conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and cancers are more prevalent in this group.
Recommended screenings include:
- Diabetes, Blood Pressure, and Cholesterol: Regular annual monitoring.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: Stool test yearly, or colonoscopy every 10 years.
- Breast Cancer Screening: Women should have mammograms every two years.
- Cervical Cancer Screening: Women up to age 69 should continue with pap smears or HPV tests.
- Bone Density Tests: To assess osteoporosis risk, especially for women after menopause.
Doctors also recommend discussing personalised screenings with your physician, based on lifestyle, medical history, and family history.
Benefits Of Regular Full Body Checkups In Singapore
- Peace Of Mind: Knowing your health status helps reduce anxiety.
- Cost Savings: Preventing serious illness is always more affordable than late-stage treatment.
- Improved Quality Of Life: Early detection allows for lifestyle changes that can slow or reverse disease progression.
- Alignment With National Health Goals: By participating in screenings, you align with MOH’s Healthier SG initiative to build a healthier population.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How Often Should I Go For A Full Body Checkup?
For most adults in Singapore, a full body checkup every one to three years is recommended, depending on age and risk factors. Those above 40 or with family history of chronic diseases may require more frequent screening.
- Is A Full Body Checkup Covered By Insurance?
Many corporate and personal health insurance plans in Singapore provide coverage or subsidies for screenings.
- Can I Customise My Full Body Checkup?
Yes. On top of the standard packages, you can discuss with our doctors for additional tests that may be necessary based on your individual condition and health status.
- Is Corporate Health Screening Available For Employees In Singapore?
Yes. Many organisations in Singapore offer corporate health screening programmes as part of employee benefits or workplace wellness initiatives. These screenings are typically designed to assess general health risks and may be customised based on company needs, employee demographics, and budget. Employees should check with their employer or HR department to understand what screenings are available to them.
Make An Appointment For Health Screening
If you have not had a checkup in the past few years, now may be the time to schedule one. Whether you are 25, 45, or 65, a full body checkup can help safeguard your health and provide clarity on your well-being. With expert guidance from healthcare professionals in Singapore, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier, longer, and more fulfilling life.
Explore AsiaMedic’s Health Screening Packages
Concerned about maintaining good health for the longer term? Consider Longevity Screening
Learn More: Understanding Tests Included In Health Screening
