A health checkup in Singapore is more than just determining whether you have any medical issues — it’s an opportunity to take a proactive approach to your well-being and catch any potential problems early on. From head to toe, a comprehensive health screening can provide valuable insights into your overall health and help you make informed decisions about your lifestyle and healthcare needs.

Singapore offers a wide range of health screening options, catering to individuals of all ages and medical needs. From comprehensive full-body scans to targeted screenings for specific conditions. 

Understanding Health Checkups

A health checkup is a preventive medical examination that aims to assess an individual’s overall health status and identify potential health risks or issues before they become more serious. It plays a crucial role in preventive healthcare by enabling early detection and intervention, leading to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs in the long run.

Why Regular Checkups are Important?

Regular health check-ups are crucial in detecting diseases early, allowing for timely intervention and improved treatment outcomes. In Singapore, diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol often progress silently, leading to further complications if left unchecked. 

Diabetes

Diabetes, a chronic condition characterised by elevated blood sugar levels, can often go unnoticed in its early stages. However, regular checkups, including blood sugar tests, can identify the condition early, enabling prompt management through lifestyle changes and medication, if necessary. This helps prevent or delay the onset of complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision loss.

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Known as the “silent killer”, hypertension frequently shows no symptoms until it causes significant harm. Routine blood pressure monitoring during health checkups can help detect hypertension early, enabling lifestyle modifications or medications to control it. This helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.

High cholesterol

High cholesterol is another silent threat that can be detected through routine blood tests. Furthermore, early detection can help manage this condition through diet, exercise or medication, significantly lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Health screenings are essential in empowering individuals to take control of their health by addressing conditions before complications arise. Early detection and diagnosis allow proactive measures like lifestyle adjustments or medical treatment, enhancing quality of life and minimising the risk of serious health complications. 

Common Types of Health Screenings in Singapore

1. Basic Health Screenings

Basic health screenings assess key health indicators like:

• Body Mass Index (BMI) to evaluate weight status
• Blood pressure to detect hypertension risk
• Blood glucose for prediabetes/diabetes screening
• Cholesterol levels, including “good” HDL and “bad” LDL

Consulting healthcare providers can help determine suitable screenings based on age, family history, and overall health.

2. Comprehensive Health Screenings

Comprehensive health screenings go beyond basic tests to provide a more in-depth assessment of an individual’s health status. These screenings often include:

• Cholesterol Profile: This test measures different types of cholesterol, including total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides. Abnormal levels can indicate an increased risk for heart disease and stroke.
• Liver Function Tests: These tests evaluate the health of the liver by measuring enzymes like ALT, AST, and bilirubin. Elevated levels may indicate liver disease, hepatitis, or other conditions.
• Kidney Function Tests: Blood and urine tests assess kidney function by measuring creatinine, urea, and protein levels. Abnormal results can signal kidney disease or other underlying issues.
• Bone & Joint Tests: Through blood tests, the calcium, phosphate, uric acid and rheumatoid factor can be assessed for the risk osteoporosis or other bone conditions. 
• Diabetic Profile: Blood tests will be taken to help determine your blood glucose levels and the risk of diabetes development. 

Some comprehensive screenings may include cancer marker tests (e.g., prostate-specific antigen for prostate cancer and other specialised tests based on individual risk factors such as age, family history, and lifestyle habits. 

3. Diagnostic Screenings

Diagnostic screenings are tailored to detect specific health conditions or assess the risk for certain diseases. These include:

• Breast Cancer Screening: Mammograms are used to detect early signs of breast cancer in women, typically recommended every 1-2 years for those over 40.
• Cervical Cancer Screening: Pap tests and HPV tests can identify precancerous changes in the cervix, helping to prevent cervical cancer.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Colonoscopies and faecal occult blood tests are used to detect polyps or early signs of colorectal cancer, especially for individuals over 50.

Heart Health Screenings

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test measures the electrical activity of the heart at rest, helping to identify arrhythmias, heart muscle damage, or other cardiovascular issues.

These specialised screenings play a crucial role in early detection, prevention, and management of various health conditions, allowing for timely interventions and improved health outcomes. 

If you are unsure which screening you should go for, consulting a healthcare provider can help determine suitable screenings based on your age, family history and overall health.

When to Get a Health Checkup

So, the question is, when exactly should you get a health checkup? While the frequency may vary based on individual circumstances, here are some general guidelines:

Age-Specific Recommendations

Screenings in Your 20s and 30s: During your 20s and 30s, the focus should be on establishing a baseline for your overall health and identifying any potential risk factors early on. Basic screenings for cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure are recommended. These tests can help detect conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic illnesses if left unmanaged.

Screenings in Your 40s and 50s: As you enter your 40s and 50s, it’s crucial to include more targeted screenings for cancer and cardiovascular health. Women should begin regular mammograms and Pap tests to screen for breast and cervical cancers, respectively. Men and women should also consider colorectal cancer screenings, such as colonoscopies or faecal occult blood tests.

Screenings After 60: After the age of 60, the emphasis should shift towards screening for chronic diseases, osteoporosis, and vision and hearing problems. Bone density scans can detect osteoporosis, allowing for early intervention and prevention of fractures. Regular eye exams can identify age-related conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration while hearing tests can help diagnose hearing loss and determine the need for assistive devices.

Preparing for Your Health Checkup

Before you go for your health checkup, there are a few things you can do to ensure a smooth and productive experience.

What to Expect

The health screening process typically begins with scheduling an appointment at a healthcare facility or clinic. Many providers offer online booking or a dedicated hotline for convenience. Once the appointment is scheduled, you may receive instructions on how to prepare for the screening.

Common preparation requirements include fasting for a certain period, usually 8-12 hours, before blood tests to ensure accurate results. You may also be advised to avoid certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the tests. Additionally, it’s recommended to bring along any previous medical records, such as test results or doctor’s notes, as these can provide valuable context for healthcare professionals.

You can expect to undergo various tests and examinations during the screening, depending on the type of screening you’ve opted for. This may include a physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, mammograms), and other specialised tests as needed.

Pre-Screening Tips

• Fasting: Most health screenings require you to fast for at least 8 hours before the appointment. This means avoiding all food and beverages, except for water, to ensure accurate blood test results.

• Avoiding Alcohol: It’s advisable to abstain from consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your health screening. Alcohol can affect various test results, including liver function tests and blood sugar levels.
• Getting Sufficient Rest: Aim to get a good night’s sleep before your health checkup. Being well-rested can help you feel more relaxed and better able to follow instructions during the screening process.
• Ultrasound Preparation: For an abdominal ultrasound, you may be instructed to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the test to prevent gas buildup, which can interfere with the imaging.
• Cardiac Stress Test: If you’re scheduled for a cardiac stress test, your healthcare provider may recommend avoiding caffeine and certain medications for a specified period before the test, as they can affect your heart rate and blood pressure.

After the Checkup

‘Normal’ Screening Results

Routine health checkups are crucial for early detection and prevention of various medical conditions. While receiving normal results is reassuring, it’s essential to continue scheduling regular screenings as recommended by healthcare professionals. Many illnesses can develop gradually without noticeable symptoms, and regular checkups allow for early identification and prompt treatment, potentially preventing more severe complications.

‘Borderline’ or ‘Abnormal’ Results

A borderline or abnormal screening result doesn’t necessarily indicate a medical condition. It’s important to consult your doctor to discuss the findings and determine if further tests or evaluations are required. Your healthcare provider can provide a comprehensive interpretation of the results and recommend appropriate next steps, such as additional diagnostic tests or lifestyle modifications. They may also suggest treatment options if a condition is identified, ensuring you receive the necessary care and guidance.

Prioritise Your Health with Routine Screenings 

Regular health screenings are essential for safeguarding your health in the long term. They not only detect potential health concerns but also provide a foundation for personalised treatment and management interventions. 

At Atlas Associates Clinic, our dedicated team is ready to help you achieve optimal health. Early treatment and effective disease management can make a significant difference in health outcomes, providing peace of mind and a proactive approach to wellness.

Take the first step towards proactive wellness today. Schedule an appointment with us at Atlas Associates Clinic and explore our tailored health check-up packages designed to meet your unique needs.