When should you have a heart health checkup?

             Written by: Dr Subita Alagh

16 June 2025

Early screening can save lives. Let’s break down when and why you should get your heart health checked.

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Some heart screenings should begin as early as age 20. Even if you feel fine, early checks help catch risks before they become problems.

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Talk to your doctor if you have: – A family history of heart disease – High Blood pressure – High cholesterol – A heart condition – Obesity – Diabetes – A smoking habit

Who Needs Earlier Checks?

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A heart checkup usually includes: ✔️ Talking about your health ✔️ Discussion about lifestyle and history ✔️ Measuring BP, weight, and BMI ✔️ Blood tests for cholesterol & sugar

What Happens During a Heart Checkup?

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Routine screening schedule: – Weight & BMI: every year – Blood pressure: every 2 years (from age 20) – Cholesterol: every 4–6 years (from age 20) – Blood sugar: every 3 years (from age 40–45)

How Often?

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If risks are found, your doctor may suggest: – ECG for heart rhythm – Stress test for response to exercise – Echocardiogram for heart function – CT or angiography to check arteries – Nuclear scan to see blood flow

What Extra Tests Might be Needed?

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Between doctor visits, you can keep an eye on your vitals to track your heart health. You can use simple tools at home like a weighing scale, BP monitor, or fitness tracker to check weight, blood pressure, sugar levels, and heart rate.

Heart Care at Home

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