“I’m quite fit, a full-body checkup is a waste of money.”
“You don’t need a full body checkup!”
“You’re young, your body can heal itself. Why do you want a full-body checkup? ”
We’re sure most people out there could list out a million reasons as to why a full body checkup is unnecessary. If you’re one of them, we request you to stop scrolling and read on. Irrespective of your age, gender and fitness levels, a full body checkup is in fact a lot more necessary than you think.
Why do you need a full body checkup?
Our fast-paced routine and our urban lifestyle is often the root cause of many health issues. Since prevention is always better than cure, a full body checkup helps you keep a tab on your health and vitals. It also ensures that underlying health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol etc. do not go undetected.
In many cases, early detection during regular full-body checkups has helped in the prevention of cancer. Therefore, one may perhaps even say that a full body checkup could arguably be the greatest form of self-care!
Consider a full-body checkup to be an investment in your physical well-being. While it may take at least a day to conduct a thorough checkup, remember that it is a necessary step in keeping track of your health. A full body checkup done at regular intervals often results in a quicker and more accurate medical diagnosis. This is because the doctor already has access to your updated medical history.
Who should get a full-body checkup?
Medical practitioners recommend that anyone above the age of 20 should get a full body checkup done at regular intervals. In case you’re already aware of your medical conditions, this becomes all the more important.
According to a report published in the Times of India, health checkups for anyone above the age of 30 should be mandatory. A full body checkup could be crucial in preventing heart failures, especially among the ones who’re below the age of 40.
Get Full Body Check Up Booked Today with Biocity Health Care Experts!
How often should you get a full-body checkup?
The jury is out on this one so there isn’t a single right answer. The frequency of full-body checkups could vary from being once in every six months, once a year to once in two years. It depends on your age and medical history.
Dr. Tarun Sahni, an internal medicine specialist at the Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi spoke to IANSLife on this. He suggests that if you have a chronic disease such as diabetes, it’s best to follow your doctor’s opinion on full-body checkups. However, if you do not have any underlying ailment, getting a full body checkup once in every couple of years is advisable.
What should a regular full-body checkup include?
A regular full body checkup for a healthy individual must include the following parameters:
1. Lipid Profile Test:
To detect and/or monitor high cholesterol levels, diabetes, high blood pressure or heart diseases.
2. Liver Function Test:
This one’s important for checking liver infections such as hepatitis and scarring of the liver (cirrhosis). It also helps in keeping track of any ongoing treatment. Liver function tests are particularly important if you consume alcohol on a regular basis.
3. Kidney Function Test:
This test particularly keeps a check on your uric acid and sodium levels among others. This also helps in identifying any existing issues with kidney functions and managing diabetes as well as high blood pressure.
4. Thyroid Tests:
Wondering why you’re suddenly gaining or losing weight without trying? The answer could be your thyroid levels. This test checks for hypothyroidism as well as hyperthyroidism. It includes T3 Test, T4 Test and TSH Test.
5. Diabetes Profile Test:
Your blood sugar levels are often considered indicators of your health levels. Identifying and managing diabetes is important. This should include three tests: pre-meal (fasting), post-meal and A1C test. While the first two could reveal if you’re at risk, an A1c test detects the presence of Type1 or Type2 diabetes by assessing your blood sugar levels for a prolonged time period.
6. Complete Blood Count Test:
These set of tests make up a very important component of a full body checkup. It may help in the early detection of leukaemia (blood cancer) among others. Assessing the presence of both red and white blood cells could also help in managing several diseases such as malaria, dengue, COVID19 etc.
7. Iron Profile Test:
Notice your face growing paler or feeling dizzy suddenly? Your iron levels could be the problem. As part of a full-body checkup, your iron levels are assessed to check for anaemia.
8. Bone Health Profile:
This parameter helps you understand how your bones respond to your body’s metabolic processes. It is extremely crucial in detecting and managing osteoporosis and early arthritis.
9. Urine Tests:
This set of tests help in checking for any Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) and detect kidney damage. If you’re sexually active, these tests are also important when checking for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) or Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)
Does a single full-body checkup package apply to all?
The human body has different requirements and conditions at different ages. While our basic parameters do not vary drastically, with the passage of time, certain areas require more attention. At Biocity Healthcare, we’ve curated total healthcare packages keeping these nuances in mind. You can take a look at them below:
1. Full Body Health Checkup:
Covers 80+ parameters, includes all regular tests
2. Comprehensive Full Body Checkup:
Covers 85+ parameters, includes a set of three tests for diabetes and thyroid. This comprehensive full body checkup also has two Vitamin B and Vitamin D tests. They’re crucial for monitoring bone diseases, preventing auto immune diseases and assessing types of anemia through folate tests.
3. Advanced Health Care Package:
Covers 100+ parameters, including the ones mentioned in the comprehensive full-body checkup. This package is especially recommended for those above the age of 50. It includes tests for STDs, arthritis, hormone profiles and cancer.
Do women require any additional tests?
For women in their 20s and 30s, a full-body checkup should also have a Pap smear test to assess the risk of cervical cancer. While those above the age of 40 should consider mammograms as well in addition to all the aforementioned tests.
Biocity Healthcare offers a specially curated package for women that covers over 86 health parameters. You can check it out here.
How does one prepare for these checkup?
To ensure you get the most accurate results, it is important to take a few steps 24 hours before going for a full body checkup:
1. Sleep well
Getting a good six to eight hours of sleep prior to a full-body checkup keeps your heart rate, body temperature and blood pressure levels in check.
2. Watch what you eat
It is always advised that you go for a full body check during the early hours of your day. This is because it is imperative that you’re fasting for at least eight hours before the checkup. It ensures that your blood sugar and cholesterol readings are accurate.
Additionally you should also avoid eating salty and fatty foods ahead of your full body checkups as they may affect your blood pressure readings.
3. Avoid consuming alcohol
It is best to avoid consuming alcohol 24-48 hours before a full-body checkup. Traces of alcohol may interfere with your liver, kidney and blood test data. Caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and colas must also be avoided.
4. Avoid heavy exercises
It is great to have a fitness routine however a full body checkup is a valid and good enough reason to skip that intensive workout session. Heavy and strenuous exercises may raise your heart rates. It is important to keep blood flow and heart rates at optimum levels before a checkup.
5. Wear comfortable clothes
Ideally, your clothing should be loose and comfortable. This makes it easier to conduct blood tests, urine or stool tests.
6. Track your menstrual cycle
Pap smears, urine and stool tests are usually conducted at least 5-6 days after your last period. Additionally, avoid sexual activities and any type of vaginal gels, creams or ointments at least 24 hours before a Pap smear test.
7. When going for a mammogram
Avoid using creams, powders and perfumes under the arm and around the chest as they may affect test results.
8. Things to know in advance
Learn about your checkup schedule from your diagnostic centre and/or your doctor. If you’re under certain medications, take your doctor’s advice on consuming them before a full body checkup.
If your checkup includes an ultrasound, drink lots of water before it. In case you’re pregnant while going for a full body checkup, make sure the practitioners are aware of your pregnancy and there’s X-Ray in your schedule.
You can book a full body checkup on Biocity Healthcare’s website at discounted rates or request a call back to know more about a particular package. Most packages offer FREE home collection of samples along with FREE online diet and health expert consultation.
FAQ’s
- What specific tests or screenings are typically included in a full body checkup?
When you go in for a full body checkup, they usually run a variety of tests to see how you’re doing health-wise. This can include things like checking your cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and blood cell counts through blood tests.
They might also check your urine to see how well your kidneys are working and if there are any potential infections present. Your blood pressure will likely be taken to keep an eye on your heart health, and you’ll receive a physical exam to assess your overall well-being and address any specific concerns.
Depending on factors like your age, gender, and family history, additional tests such as vision screenings or calculating your BMI might be part of the checkup as well. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about the details of your checkup to make sure you’re getting the care you need.
- How often should I get a full body checkup?
When it comes to full body checkups, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Typically, if you’re a healthy adult under 50, you can probably wait 3 years between checkups. But if you’re over 50, it might be beneficial to go annually. Factors like chronic health conditions, family history, and lifestyle choices can also play a role in how often you should see your doctor. It’s best to have a discussion with your doctor to come up with a personalized checkup plan that works best for your overall health.
- Are there any risks associated with getting a full body checkup?
Getting a full body checkup can have many advantages, but it’s important to be aware of some potential drawbacks. For example, certain tests such as X-rays may expose you to a small amount of radiation. Moreover, receiving unexpected results from tests can sometimes trigger feelings of anxiety, even if they end up being harmless. Having a conversation with your doctor about the pros and cons of each test before undergoing them can assist you in making a well-informed choice.
- What are the costs associated with a full-body checkup?
The price of a full-body checkup may differ based on various factors such as the tests included, your location, and the healthcare provider chosen. Costs can vary from a few hundred rupees to several thousand, with more thorough checkups typically costing more. It is recommended to consult with your doctor or selected clinic for an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs.
- How often should I get a full-body checkup?
It’s important to get regular checkups based on your age andigi health. Typically, if you’re under 50 and healthy, you can go every 2-3 years. But if you’re over 50, have chronic conditions, or a family history of disease, yearly checkups are best. Talk to your doctor to figure out the right schedule for you.
- Are there any risks associated with a full-body checkup?
When getting a full-body checkup, it’s generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Some tests, such as blood draws, can be a little uncomfortable. In rare situations, there might be a false positive outcome, causing unnecessary anxiety or additional tests. It’s crucial to talk about any worries with your doctor before the checkup so that they can customize it to fit your requirements and clarify the possible results.
6. Which test is best for full body checkup?
When it comes to picking the best full body checkup test name, the “best” test depends on your health needs, age, family history, and any existing conditions. However, most comprehensive full body checkups include a series of tests aimed at assessing your overall health. Here’s what a good full body checkup typically includes:
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC):
The CBC Blood test provides vital information about your blood, such as red blood cell, white blood cell, and platelet levels. It helps detect infections, anemia, or blood disorders.
2. Blood Sugar Test (Fasting and Postprandial):
Measures blood glucose levels to screen for diabetes or prediabetes.
3. Lipid Profile Test:
This test assesses your cholesterol levels, including HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, to evaluate heart health and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
4. Kidney Function Test (KFT):
Analyzes levels of creatinine, urea, and electrolytes to check how well your kidneys are working.
5. Liver Function Test (LFT):
Evaluates liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels to detect liver-related issues like hepatitis, fatty liver, or damage caused by alcohol.
6. Thyroid Function Test (T3, T4, TSH):
Helps diagnose hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism by checking your thyroid hormone levels.
7. Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Tests:
Tests for Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and iron levels to identify any deficiencies that could impact your health.
8. ECG (Electrocardiogram):
Evaluates heart activity to detect abnormalities like irregular heartbeat or underlying cardiac issues.
9. Chest X-Ray:
Provides a clear picture of your lungs and chest cavity to detect issues like infections, pneumonia, or lung diseases.
10. Abdominal Ultrasound:
Check your internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, and pancreas for any abnormalities.
11. Urine and Stool Tests:
Screens for infections, kidney issues, or digestive problems.
12. Bone Density Test (for older individuals):
Determines bone strength and detects early signs of osteoporosis.
Customizing the Test for Your Needs
- For young adults: Basic tests like CBC, blood sugar, lipid profile, and LFT are generally sufficient.
- For middle-aged individuals: Additional tests like ECG, thyroid function, and vitamin deficiencies are recommended.
- For seniors or those with chronic conditions: More detailed screenings, including cardiac tests, bone density, and advanced imaging, might be necessary.
