Most of us today live a hectic life, either due to the pressing deadlines at work, or tiring social engagements. Unfortunately, our packed schedules are often at odds with our aspirations to attain good health through proper nutrition and exercise. This has resulted in a remarkable increase in the incidence of nutritional deficiency disorders and other chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, obesity etc.Did you know that almost seven out of ten deaths are caused due to chronic diseases and half of these cases are detectable at an early stage through proper screening and regular health check ups?
Here are few important tests which you should get done every year for early diagnosis and better management of common illnesses.
Cholesterol Check: Owing to the sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits and excess intake of alcohol, most of the people in their 30s and 40s have high blood cholesterol levels. LDL, VLDL and triglycerides are considered as bad types of cholesterol. The higher their levels, the greater is the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol is considered as good cholesterol and is believed to protect the heart. It is advisable to get a cholesterol test done yearly if you have a family history of heart disease, obesity, or are a smoker.
Diabetes or Blood Sugar Check: The incidence of diabetes has been increasing exponentially over the past few years. Previously, it was a disease predominantly seen in middle-aged to elderly people, but in recent years, the age of onset has decreased and it is now commonly affecting adolescents as well. It is important to get the fasting blood sugar levels and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) tests done yearly, especially if you have a history of diabetes in your family. Early diagnosis and intervention can help in reducing common diabetic complications like cardiovascular, kidney or eye problems.
Vitamin Check: Unhealthy diet and stress can lead to deficiencies of nutrients, predominantly of vitamins such as vitamin B12 and D. Vitamin B12 is important for the proper maturation of red blood cells and neurons in the brain. On the other hand, deficiency of vitamin D may lead to osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, common cold etc. Therefore, it is important to get your vitamin levels tested yearly for a proper functioning of the body.
Thyroid Check: Thyroid imbalance is a common health condition in our country. It is more common in women than men. Imbalance of this hormone can cause either hyperthyroidism (excess of thyroid hormone) or hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone). The disorder can be diagnosed at an early stage by simple blood tests like free T3, free T4 and TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). You should get these tests done yearly for early detection of hormonal imbalance.
Blood Pressure Check: It is always advisable to keep your blood pressure under check for a good Today’s lifestyle and food habits cause stress for the mind and body, which results in high blood pressure over time. This can have a direct effect on heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. Getting the blood pressure checked is cheap, simple and quick, and must be done on a regular basis.
Therefore, go ahead and get a comprehensive health check-up done every year to monitor your health. In addition, adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy, being physically active and quitting harmful habits like smoking and alcohol.
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