Nowadays, neglecting our health is easy until a problem arises. Many of us tend to seek medical attention only when we’re unwell or experiencing discomfort.

However, this reactive approach to healthcare can often lead to missed opportunities for early detection and prevention of diseases. On the other hand, regular health checkups are a proactive and essential part of maintaining your well-being.

This comprehensive guide will explore the importance of regular health checkups, what they entail, and how they contribute to a healthier, longer life. First, let’s take a look at the importance of health checkups.

1. Early detection of health issues: Many diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers, often show no symptoms in their early stages. Regular screenings can identify these conditions before progressing, making treatment more effective and less invasive. For example, a routine blood pressure check during a checkup can reveal hypertension, a condition that, if left untreated, can lead to heart disease, stroke, or kidney problems.
2. Prevention of chronic diseases: Prevention is often more manageable and cost-effective than treatment. Regular checkups allow you to assess your risk factors for chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. With this information, you can guide diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes to reduce risk.
3. Monitoring existing health conditions: If you already have a chronic health condition, such as asthma, arthritis, or diabetes, regular checkups are essential for monitoring your condition’s progression and managing its effects. For instance, in the case of diabetes, regular checkups help ensure your blood sugar levels are within a healthy range. Medication or lifestyle recommendations can be adjusted, reducing the risk of complications like nerve damage or kidney disease.
4. Establishing a health baseline: When you undergo your first comprehensive health checkup, it creates a baseline of your health. This baseline includes measurements like blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index (BMI). As you continue to have regular checkups over the years, healthcare providers can track changes and deviations from this baseline, signaling potential health issues.
5. Peace of mind: Regular health checkups provide peace of mind. Knowing you’re taking proactive steps to monitor and protect your health can alleviate anxiety about potential health issues.

What to expect during a health checkup

The specific tests and assessments included in a health checkup can vary based on age, gender, and individual health history. However, a standard checkup typically includes:

• A medical history review includes existing conditions, medications, and family medical history.
• Physical examination: Thischecks various aspects of your health, including your heart, lungs, abdomen, and skin.
• Vital signs measurement: This includes checking your blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
• Blood tests: These may include a complete blood count (CBC), lipid profile (cholesterol levels), blood sugar tests (for diabetes), and other blood chemistry tests.
• Screenings: Depending on your age and gender, mammograms, Pap smears, prostate exams, or colonoscopies may be recommended.
• Vaccinations: Necessary vaccinations will be recommended.
• Discussion of lifestyle and risk factors: Your diet, physical activity, smoking and alcohol use, stress levels, and other factors that could impact your health.

How often should you have a health checkup?

The frequency of health checkups can vary based on age, gender, and individual health risks. Generally, adults should have a comprehensive health checkup at least once a year. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent checkups, while others may require less regular assessments.

You can visit any of our test centers for a health check. Below is a list of our wellness packages and their respective prices.

Wellness Package	Price
Male Wellness Plan	₦45,000 – ₦200,000
Female Wellness Plan	₦45,000 – ₦200,000
Domestic Wellness Plan	₦10,00 – ₦22,000
STI Wellness Plan	₦17,000 – ₦70,000
Medicals by Age	₦50,000
Pre-wedding Wellness Plan	₦20,000 – ₦40,000

Remember, regular health checkups will always remain a cornerstone of preventive healthcare. You proactively maintain your well-being by scheduling these appointments and actively participating in your healthcare. To schedule a health check, click here or walk into any of our test centers closest to you.