When should I get a health screening done? A Singaporean Guide 2024

"Prevention is better than Cure"

5 min read

What is a health screening?

A health screening is a proactive medical evaluation conducted on asymptomatic individuals to detect potential health issues or risk factors before symptoms manifest, allowing for early intervention and preventive measures.

What cancers should I screen for?

Cancer screenings are essential for early detection and improved outcomes. Recommendations may vary based on age, gender, and risk factors.

Common cancer screenings include:

• All
• Colonoscopy or fecal occult blood test: For colorectal cancer, usually from 50 years old
• Skin examinations: Regular skin checks for melanoma, especially if you have risk factors.
• Lung cancer screening: Low-dose CT scans for heavy smokers aged 55-80 with a smoking history.

• Women
• Mammograms: For breast cancer, starting at age 40.
• Pap smears and HPV tests: For cervical cancer, starting at age 21.

• Men
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: For prostate cancer, starting at age 50.

What chronic diseases should I screen for?

Cancer screenings are essential for early detection and improved outcomes. Recommendations may vary based on age, gender, and risk factors.

Common cancer screenings include:

• Diabetes
• Screening for diabetes should start at age 40 and repeat every 3 years, or earlier if you have risk factors like obesity or a family history of diabetes. Regular screening helps detect diabetes early, enabling prompt treatment to prevent complications. Early diagnosis and management can reduce the risk of heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems associated with diabetes, improving overall health outcomes and quality of life.

• High Blood Pressure
• Screening for high blood pressure should begin early from 18 years old, and continued throughout adulthood. Regular blood pressure checks help identify hypertension early. Early detection is essential because high blood pressure is a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. Timely intervention through lifestyle changes and medication, if necessary, can effectively manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular complications. Adults should aim for regular blood pressure monitoring, at least once every two years or more frequently as recommended by a healthcare provider, depending on individual risk factors.

• Cholesterol
• Cholesterol screening should be done from age 40 and repeat every 3 years, or earlier (as early as 20 years old)  if you have risk factors. High cholesterol is a major risk for heart disease and stroke. Early detection enables lifestyle changes and medication if needed, reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized screening guidance.