The most important periodic medical examinations

1. Blood pressure test

• Recommendation: Blood pressure should be measured regularly starting at age 18.
• Objective: To detect high blood pressure (hypertension), which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

2. Blood cholesterol test

• Recommendation: This test should be performed every 4-6 years starting at age 20.
• Objective: To detect high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

3. Blood sugar test (glycosylated hemoglobin or glucose test)

• Recommendation: The test should be performed starting at age 45, or earlier if there is a family history of diabetes or other risk factors.
• Objective: To detect diabetes or pre-diabetes, which helps in early prevention.

4. Cancer screening (such as breast, prostate, colon)

• Recommendation: This test depends on age, gender, and family history:
• Breast cancer: Mammogram test every two years for women aged 40 and over.
• Prostate cancer: PSA screening starting at age 50 for men (or at age 40 for those with a family history).

• Colon cancer: Colonoscopy starting at age 45.

• Objective: To detect common cancers early and provide treatment at early stages.

5. Liver and kidney function tests

• Recommendation: Can be done annually or based on health factors such as the presence of chronic diseases (such as diabetes or high blood pressure).

• Objective: To detect any liver or kidney problems that may not show symptoms in the early stages.

6. Thyroid function tests

• Recommendation: The test is done when thyroid problems are suspected or when symptoms such as fatigue or weight changes appear.

• Objective: To detect thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.