Get clued up on health checks before your next doctor’s appointment. Here are the top health checks you should have in 2019.
Blood pressure testing
Having high blood pressure can put you at a higher risk of straining your heart, having a stroke, and even a heart attack. Stay safe by checking your blood pressure at least once or twice a year to see if it remains more or less stable. If your blood pressure is high, your doctor will give you advice on how it should be monitored and treated. Apps such as Heart Habit or Pacer can help you keep track of your blood pressure.
Cervical cancer screening
Women between the ages of 21 and 29 should be screened for cervical cancer once every three years. The most common way you’d be screened for cervical cancer is with a pap test. During the test, a doctor will take a small sample of cells from your cervix, which is tested for cancer. The pap test can help find anything abnormal, so you can get early treatment, which can help prevent cancer from spreading.
Obesity screening
Obesity is when your body has accumulated so much fat that it could lead to health problems. This may include high blood pressure, asthma, heart diseases, diabetes and high cholesterol. Screening for obesity will usually involve a physical exam and your doctor will also review your medical history, eating, lifestyle and exercise habits. Your BMI (body mass index) will be checked, as well as your waist size. Your BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared.
STI testing
STI testing is vital, as sexually transmitted diseases can increase your risk for complications related to infertility, pelvic pain, certain cancers and heart diseases. It’s important to be honest about your sex life (how many partners you have, and if you’re using protection) so your doctor can help you decide what kind of tests you may need. A test may include a urine test (peeing in a cup), a cheek swab to test for HIV, a blood test, a physical exam, or a genital swab to check for infections.
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