Health check-ups are important at every age, but they must also be appropriate for each age group. So, at different stages of life—from childhood, adolescence, working age, to old age—what health check-ups should be done? We have the answers..
Childhood
In pediatric clinics, regular check-ups are already conducted, such as developmental assessments to evaluate whether development is appropriate for the age, as well as monitoring weight and height to assess risks for certain diseases. If proportions are not suitable for the age, nutritional care must be increased. Additionally, importance is placed on timely vaccinations.
Ages 18 and over
At this age, attention is still needed on development, including height and weight appropriateness for the age. Blood pressure should also be checked because hypertension can occur in adolescents. If a teenage patient has high blood pressure, the medical team will diagnose to find any underlying conditions. If the patient is overweight, screening for hidden diabetes may also be necessary.
Working Age
When entering working age, many people begin to experience stress, unbalanced diets, and lack of exercise. At this stage, blood health should be checked, such as screening for anemia and blood sugar levels to assess diabetes risk. Besides sugar, lipid levels should also be monitored. Additionally, liver and kidney function tests should be done as preliminary screenings.
Ages 30 and over
At this age, an electrocardiogram (ECG) should be added because the risk of heart disease begins to increase.
Women aged 40 and over
Women aged 40 and over should undergo breast cancer screening as well as pelvic exams to screen for cervical cancer. (Cervical cancer screening should be done for all sexually active women regardless of age.)
Ages 50 and over and retirement age
At this age, the body becomes more susceptible to various diseases. Therefore, comprehensive screening is necessary, including blood tests for sugar and lipid levels, liver and kidney function tests, chest X-rays, and electrocardiograms. Colonoscopy is also recommended to screen for colorectal cancer (if abnormalities are found, health check-ups should be done at least every 5 years).
