A healthy male in his 40s, will require a variety screening tests to assess for chronic or underlying medical conditions such as:
- hyperlipidemia
- hypertension
- diabetes
- and gout
In addition, he may wish to check on the health of his heart, liver, thyroid, kidney, prostate and colon. Blood investigations may assist the clinician by giving some clues.
Other key health screening tests, which include:
- stress ECGs
- colonoscopy
- abdominal ultrasound
- eye tests
- chest X-ray
may also be recommended after a detailed clinical history-taking and thorough physical examination.
This approach allows the patient and the clinician to plan the appropriate screening tests based on the patient's profile and risk factors.
If there is a family history of cancer, additional attention should be paid to screen for cancers. STD screening tests may also be recommended.
As one ages, the screening test frequency should increase. As a guide, they range from every 3 years to every 6 months, depending on the profile and risk factors of the patient. Medical conditions which are of greater concern should be screened more regularly.
Best regards
Dr Quah
