Many of us live fast-paced lives. We spend endless hours at the office, run around our families, and stress more than we should. Unless we are ill, it has become common for people to neglect and even compromise our health. This is a habit that must be changed. Going for regular medical check-ups should be at the top of your priority list. Not only can it prevent, but importantly detect possible illnesses early on.

How often should I go for a general check-up?

A general check-up is a visit to your doctor where you are examined, have the necessary tests done and a comprehensive medical history is taken. Doing this will help your doctor establish any medical risks that you might have and review previous test results from your past check-ups. The main aim of a check-up is to make sure that your body systems are functioning well and to detect early signs and symptoms of disease.

Most medical doctors will advise that you go for a general check-up at least once a year. This does however depend on your age, gender, risk factors, family health history and your health status. It is imperative that you do go to your annual check-ups once you reach the age of 45. Nevertheless, as suggested, an annual check-up is the best guide for any age group. This will ensure that sufficient preventative healthcare takes place and the necessary health education.

What can I expect during the check-up?

The appointment with your doctor will usually not take longer than an hour. This does vary from person to person, depending on what tests are conducted. From a general healthcare perspective, you can expect the following:

• Your blood pressure will be checked.
• The doctor will listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope.
• The doctor might feel your abdomen.
• Your body will be examined for possible unusual growths or marks.
• You will be asked about your medical history, medications, lifestyle habits and allergies.
• Depending on your age, health status and the results of your physical exam, the doctor might perform other tests.

What other health check-ups should I prioritise?

Besides your annual general check-up, it is advised that women and men also go for the following health check-ups. This will ensure that your doctor does not miss out on a specific diagnosis and that you visit the necessary specialist health providers.

For women, the recommended health checks include:

• Mammogram: to screen for breast cancer
• Pap smear: for cervical health screening
• Bone density test: to check the strength of your bones
• High cholesterol screening (starting at age 45) and screening for Diabetes
• Colonoscopy (when you reach the age of 50)

For men, the recommended health checks include:

• Prostate exam: to test for prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer test
• High cholesterol screening (starting at age 35) and Diabetes screening
• Colonoscopy (when you reach the age of 50)

Is there anything else that I can do from my side?

Booking your general check-up and making sure not to miss it means that you are already a step ahead with your health. When it comes to preparing for your check-up you might want to consider the following:

• If you are visiting a new doctor for the first time, make sure to inform the doctor about important medical information and history.
• Make note of any symptoms, allergies, or medication queries that you want to bring up during your appointment.
• Always be open and honest with your doctor, and do not be afraid or embarrassed to ask for health advice. Your doctor is there to assist you.

Now is the time to take care of your health and ensure that you do not miss those general check-ups. Hospitals are safe and open to make in-person appointments. Seeing your doctor annually can add years to your life. A 30-minute consultation once a year is all it takes. If you can prioritise other things in your life, you can also do the same with your health!

For more information please contact:

Dr Emmanuel Kabuzi, Specialist Physician
FCP(SA), DTM & H Witwatersrand, MBChB
Randfontein Private Hospital
Tel: +27 (0) 87 284 3969
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

The lenmed Group is a world-class chain of Private Hospitals that brings quality healthcare to communities across Southern Africa.

Disclaimer: Any information contained here is merely a guideline. Always visit your healthcare practitioner for any health-related advice or diagnosis.