Dr Jayaram Lingamanaicker, a leading cardiologist with more than 20 years of experience, has dedicated his career to diagnosing and treating heart conditions. Dr Jayaram brings extensive expertise in cardiac health and preventive care. His passion for treating heart-related conditions drives his advocacy for regular health screenings, which play a key role in preventing serious complications.
By making screenings a routine part of healthcare, individuals can take control of their well-being, addressing risks before they develop into serious conditions.
The Role of Health Screenings in Preventive Care
Health screenings are one of the most effective tools in preventive medicine. They can detect underlying health conditions before symptoms appear, enabling early intervention and better long-term outcomes.
Screenings help identify risk factors for chronic conditions, including:
- Obesity – Measuring Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference helps assess the risk of obesity-related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
- Diabetes – Identifying early signs of insulin resistance allows for timely management to prevent long-term health complications.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) – Regular checks help catch elevated blood pressure early, allowing for lifestyle changes or medical intervention when necessary.
Dr Jayaram emphasises that screenings are not just for those with existing health concerns. Many conditions develop silently, without noticeable symptoms, making regular check-ups essential even for those who feel healthy.
Common Myths and Misconceptions about Health Screenings
Many people hesitate to go for regular screenings due to common misconceptions. Dr Jayaram addresses some of the most frequent myths:
“I feel fine, so I don’t need a health screening.”
Many chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, develop with no symptoms in their early stages. By the time symptoms appear, complications may have already developed. Regular screenings help detect hidden health conditions before they become serious.
“If my results are normal once, I don’t need another screening.”
A single normal result does not mean you are risk-free for life. Health screenings should be done regularly to monitor changes over time and detect any emerging health issues.
What screenings do you need?
Screening recommendations depend on age, lifestyle, and medical history.
- For adults aged 18-39 – The Diabetes Risk Assessment (DRA) helps assess the likelihood of developing diabetes. Younger adults should also monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol, especially if they have a family history of related conditions.
- For females aged 25 and above – Cervical cancer screening is recommended, depending on lifestyle factors, to detect early signs of cervical abnormalities.
- For those aged 40 and above – More comprehensive screenings, including blood glucose tests, cholesterol checks, and blood pressure monitoring, are encouraged as part of routine preventive care.
- For individuals aged 50 and above – Colorectal cancer screening is advised for both males and females to detect early signs.
- For females aged 50 and above – Mammograms are recommended for the early detection of breast cancer. These screenings are designed to detect potential health issues early, ensuring timely interventions that support long-term well-being.
For Singaporeans enrolled in the Healthier SG (HSG) programme, nationally recommended health screenings are fully subsidised at their enrolled HSG clinic. Individuals can check with their clinic to find out when their next recommended screening is due.
Practical Tips for Health Screening
If you have not gone for a health screening before or it has been a while, preparing ahead of time can help you get the most out of your visit. Here are some useful tips:
- Ask the right questions – Speak with your doctor about which screenings are suitable for you based on your medical history and lifestyle.
- Understand your results – If abnormalities are detected, follow up with your doctor to discuss next steps. Many conditions can be managed effectively with early intervention.
- Fast if required – Some blood tests, such as glucose and cholesterol checks, may require fasting for 8-10 hours beforehand. Confirm fasting requirements with your healthcare provider before your appointment.
Stay One Step Ahead
Dr Jayaram encourages individuals to prioritise their health by making screenings a routine part of their healthcare journey. Prevention is always better than cure, and taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier future.
Check out HealthierSG for support in your journey towards better health. Your health is in your hands—take the first step today.
Contributed By
- Health Promotion Board