Health screenings are tests that look for signs of illness or disease in people with no symptoms. They can help find problems early when they’re easier to treat.
Screenings are used for many different conditions, including cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Some screenings are done as part of routine physical exams, while others require special tests, depending on your health screening package. There are many reasons why health screenings are important:
- They can help find diseases early when they’re easier to treat.
- Screenings can also help find risk factors for disease. This means that people can make changes to lower their risk, such as quitting smoking or eating a healthier diet.
- Screenings can help peace of mind by the reassurance that everything is okay.
Types of Health Screenings you can Benefit From
There are varied options for health screening in Singapore that may be recommended for you. The type of health screening that would be recommended for you may vary depending on your age, health history, and family history. Some common types of health screenings include:
I. Blood pressure screening
Blood pressure screening usually involves a health professional taking your blood pressure using an inflatable cuff to measure the pressure of the blood against your artery walls. The procedure is usually painless and takes just a few minutes.
Your blood pressure will be recorded as systolic blood pressure (the highest number) and diastolic blood pressure (the lowest number). A reading of 120/80 mmHg or below is considered normal.
High blood pressure is when your systolic blood pressure is 140mmHg or above or when your diastolic blood pressure is 90mmHg or above. You’re more likely to develop high blood pressure if it runs in your family, if you’re overweight, or if you’re African American. If you have high blood pressure, it’s important to get it under control because it can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
II. Cholesterol screening
Cholesterol screening involves a simple blood test that measures the level of cholesterol in your blood. Your total cholesterol level comprises low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
LDL cholesterol is sometimes called “bad” cholesterol because it can build up on the walls of your arteries and lead to heart disease. High-density lipoprotein is sometimes referred to as the “good” cholesterol because of the role it plays in removing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol from the arteries.
The ideal total cholesterol level is under 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Any LDL cholesterol level under 100 mg/dL is deemed optimal. A level of 160 mg/dL or higher is considered high.
If your cholesterol levels are high, you’re at increased risk for heart disease and stroke. You can lower your cholesterol by making changes to your diet, such as eating more fruits and vegetables and less saturated fat, and by exercising regularly. You may also need to take medication.
III. Mammogram
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that can help find breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat. Mammograms are recommended for women starting at age 50 and continuing every two years. Women at high risk for breast cancer (such as those with a family history of the disease) may need to get mammograms earlier and more often.
A mammogram usually takes about 10 minutes. During the procedure, your breast is compressed between two plates while an x-ray is taken. The compression may be uncomfortable, but it’s important to get clear images. If an abnormality is found, you may need additional testing, such as a breast ultrasound or biopsy.
IV. Pap test
A Pap test (or Pap smear) is a screening test for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina) and looking at them under a microscope.
The Pap test can also detect changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer. Cervical cancer is usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.
Pap tests are recommended for women starting at age 21 and continuing every three years until age 65. If you’re at high risk for cervical cancer (such as if you have HIV or a family history of the disease), you may need to get Pap tests more often.
The Pap test is usually done during a pelvic exam. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold it open, and a swab is used to collect cells from the cervix. The cells are then sent to a laboratory for testing.
The list above is not all-inclusive. There are other health screenings that may be recommended based on your age, health status, and family history. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about which screenings are right for you.
How to Prepare for a Health Screening Appointment
There are a number of things you can do to prepare for a health screening in Singapore. First, it is important to make sure that you are aware of the types of tests that will be carried out. This will help you understand the test’s purpose and what the results might mean.
It is also important to fast before certain types of tests, such as blood tests, so that the results are accurate. Finally, it is generally advisable to wear loose-fitting clothing so that you are comfortable during the appointment.
There are two things that may happen when you go for a health screening. You can get abnormal test results or normal test results.
If you receive abnormal test results, it is important not to panic. Abnormal test results can be caused by a number of factors, and not all of them will be serious.
Your doctor or nurse will discuss the results with you in detail and explain what they mean. If further tests are needed, they will be arranged.
In most cases, abnormal test results simply mean that you will need to have more regular check-ups in the future. However, if you have any concerns about your health, please do not hesitate to speak to your doctor or nurse.
The Bottom Line
Getting regular health screenings is an important part of staying healthy. They can help find problems early when they’re easier to treat. So make sure to schedule appointments for yourself and keep up with your screenings. It could be the most important thing you do for your health!
We offer a wide range of health screenings. To make an appointment, please contact us.
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