Health Screening

Health screening is testing people who feel well, to catch problems earlier than they would be noticed otherwise. Good screening finds conditions that are common, detectable early, and treatable more effectively when caught — so it's genuinely worth doing.

India-appropriate adult screening — a practical guide

Your Health Expert may adjust this based on personal and family history. These are general suggestions.

Every year from 30-35

• Blood pressure.
• Fasting blood sugar or HbA1c — especially important for Indians with family history, high BMI or waist size.
• Weight and waist circumference.
• Lipid profile every 3-5 years (more often if abnormal or risk factors present).

From 40-45

• All of the above annually.
• ECG — baseline and as risk factors accumulate.
• Thyroid function (TSH) — at least once; repeat if symptoms.
• Annual eye check — glaucoma screening from 40.
• Dental check every 6-12 months.

Women

• Cervical cancer screening — Pap smear or HPV test from 30, every 3-5 years.
• Breast — monthly self-awareness; clinical exam as advised; mammography from 40-45 (earlier with family history).
• Bone density (DEXA) — from 65, earlier with risk factors.
• Preconception counselling and antenatal screening in pregnancy.

Men

• Prostate (PSA) — discuss with a Health Expert from 50 (or 45 with family history).

Both, from 45-50

• Colon cancer screening — stool tests every 1-2 years; colonoscopy every 10 years.
• Hearing check every 2-3 years after 60.
• Skin check if at risk (lots of outdoor work, family history, unusual moles).

TB and HIV

TB screening if symptoms (cough > 2 weeks, weight loss, night sweats, fever). HIV test should be part of routine care — free and confidential at government centres — especially for anyone with possible exposure, pregnancy, or as part of TB work-up.

Caveats worth knowing

• Not every test recommended in a "health package" is useful — full-body scans, whole-body MRIs and cancer-marker panels in well people often create false alarms and unneeded follow-on tests.
• Whole-body PET scans for screening are not recommended for healthy people.
• The most useful tests are often the simplest: BP, weight, blood sugar, lipids — done consistently.

Screening is worth doing well, not exhaustively. A Health Expert can tailor tests to your real risks rather than a package.