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We all say it—“prevention is better than cure.” But how often do we really act on it?
You’re feeling okay, juggling work, family, and everything else life throws at you. There’s no real “problem,” so why bother with health tests, right? But here’s the thing—most serious health issues don’t start with warning signs. They creep in slowly and silently. That’s why taking a few essential medical tests every year can actually save you from a lot of trouble (and expenses) down the road.
Let’s make this simple. Below are the tests every adult should take annually—not to scare you, but to keep you healthy, informed, and in control.
It’s no secret that our modern lifestyle—screen-heavy jobs, processed food, irregular sleep—is taking a toll. But the numbers are more worrying than most of us realize.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses are responsible for over 74% of all global deaths, and the burden is rapidly rising in low- and middle-income countries like India. Source: WHO – Noncommunicable diseases
In India specifically, the data is even more staggering:
What makes this even more concerning is that most of these conditions don’t show symptoms in the early stages. That’s where routine health checkups come in. Tests like a blood sugar profile or a lipid panel can catch risks early—before they become chronic problems.
Bottom line: The rise in lifestyle-related diseases is no longer just a future threat—it’s a current reality. And the simplest way to tackle it? A few essential tests each year, done on time.
Most of us go to the doctor only when we’re sick. But what if your body is already sending signals and you just haven’t noticed? High blood pressure, high sugar, or low vitamin levels often show no symptoms in the beginning. Left unchecked, they can lead to major complications.
When you go for your annual health check-up, it’s like doing a system scan for your body. It helps catch any issues early, when they’re easier (and cheaper) to manage. Think of it like servicing your car—you don’t wait for the engine to fail, right?
Let’s be honest, a 25-year-old gym-goer and a 52-year-old with a family history of diabetes don’t need the exact same health tests. So here’s a guide to help you figure out what matters most for your age—and your habits.
In Your 20s to Early 30s
Start with the basics—CBC, blood sugar, BP, and maybe vitamin D & B12 (especially if you spend most of your day indoors). Love street food? Party late? Consider adding lipid profile and liver function to the mix. Prevention starts early.
In Your Mid-30s to 50s
This is the decade when family history starts to show itself. Got diabetes or heart disease in the family? Slot in kidney function, thyroid panel, and a closer look at your cholesterol. Your schedule might be tight—but your body deserves a quick pit stop each year.
50 and Beyond
Consider bone density scans, colon screening, and gender-specific cancer checks. Things like prostate health (for men) and breast health (for women) become priority screenings. At this point, health tests aren’t just preventive—they’re protective.
These are the core tests that give you a good picture of your health. They don’t take much time, but they can give you powerful information.
1. Blood Pressure Check
Why: High BP often has no symptoms but increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. When: Once a year, or more often if you’re already diagnosed.
2. Blood Sugar Test (Fasting or HbA1c)
Why: To detect early signs of diabetes or prediabetes. When: Annually, especially if you have a sedentary lifestyle or family history.
3. Lipid Profile
Why: Checks your cholesterol levels and helps assess your heart health. When: Every year after the age of 30, earlier if heart disease runs in the family.
4. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Why: It gives insight into your immunity, detects anemia, and more. When: Yearly, even if you’re feeling healthy.
5. Liver Function Test (LFT)
Why: Liver issues are common due to poor diet, alcohol, or certain medicines. When: Once a year, especially for people who drink, or take medication regularly.
6. Kidney Function Test (KFT)
Why: To monitor how well your kidneys are working. When: Yearly, especially if you have diabetes or high BP.
7. Thyroid Function Test (T3, T4, TSH)
Why: Thyroid disorders are very common, especially in women, and can affect energy, weight, and mood. When: Once a year or as advised by your doctor.
8. Vitamin D and B12
Why: Low levels can cause fatigue, muscle weakness, low immunity, and even mood issues. When: Once a year, especially for people with desk jobs or vegetarians.
For Women
For Men
These are not necessarily annual but should be part of your preventive health plan, especially as you age.
These might not be needed by everyone but can be useful based on lifestyle or family history.
You don’t need to do anything fancy. Just a few simple steps:
Set a fixed month or week every year for your check-up. Put a reminder on your phone or calendar. Involve your partner or a friend. Make it a health tradition. Just like you plan trips or events, plan a "health day" once a year.
You can also keep a small file (physical or digital) with your yearly reports. It’ll help you—and your doctor—track your health over time.
If you’re in or around Mohali, you can visit us at Redpath Diagnostics—your trusted partner for accurate, reliable health tests. Our expert team ensures precision testing with timely reports, so you can stay proactive about your health without any stress.
Because in the end, forming this one small habit can truly save your life.
You don’t need to overhaul your health in a day. Just taking your annual tests is a great starting point. Knowing your numbers—your BP, sugar, vitamin levels—puts you in control.
In a world where stress is high and time is short, your health deserves a little attention. Because truly, prevention is always better than cure. So go ahead—pick a date, book your tests, and take that first simple step towards a healthier you.
Q. I feel completely fine. Do I still need these tests? Yes. Many serious conditions start with no symptoms. These tests are for catching problems before they make you feel unwell.
Q. Are all these tests really necessary every year? Some can be done once in 2–3 years based on age and health history. But the basic ones like BP, sugar, cholesterol, CBC are worth doing yearly.
Q. What if a result comes back abnormal? Should I panic? Not at all. One off reading doesn’t mean something serious. Talk to your doctor. Often, lifestyle changes are enough to bring things back to normal.
Q. Can I take these tests at home? Home kits are available for some tests, but lab tests are more accurate. You can also book sample collection from home via trusted labs.