Prevention is always better — and cheaper — than cure. Yet most Indians visit a doctor only when symptoms appear. Here are 10 essential health checkups you should consider every year, regardless of age.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The cornerstone of any health checkup. CBC screens for anemia, infections, and blood disorders by analyzing RBCs, WBCs, and platelets.
2. Blood Sugar (Fasting & Post-Prandial)
Diabetes affects over 77 million Indians. A fasting blood glucose < 100 mg/dL is normal. Between 100–125 is pre-diabetes. ≥ 126 on two occasions is diabetes.
3. Lipid Profile
Measures total cholesterol, LDL ("bad"), HDL ("good"), and triglycerides. High LDL is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.
4. Thyroid Function Test (TSH)
Thyroid disorders are widespread in India, especially among women. A TSH test detects both underactive (hypothyroidism) and overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid.
5. Liver Function Test (LFT)
Checks for liver health via enzymes (SGPT, SGOT), bilirubin, and proteins. Important for anyone with alcohol consumption history or fatty liver risk.
6. Kidney Function Test (KFT)
Creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels reveal kidney health. Especially important for people with hypertension or diabetes.
7. HbA1c
Unlike a single blood sugar reading, HbA1c gives a 3-month average of your blood sugar control. Critical for diabetes management and diagnosis.
8. Blood Pressure Check
High blood pressure is called a "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms. Normal BP is below 120/80 mmHg.
9. Vitamin D & B12
Deficiencies of both are extremely common in India. Low Vitamin D leads to bone weakness; low B12 causes fatigue and neurological issues.
10. Urine Routine Examination
A simple urine test can detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and early signs of diabetes through protein or glucose in urine.