Many chronic diseases often appear without the sufferer realizing it. This is generally due to a lack of awareness of the importance of regular health check-ups. In fact, regular health check-ups can prevent and control chronic diseases before they develop into more severe.

Definition of Health Screening

Health screening is an examination that is carried out to detect health disorders or diseases that have not yet shown symptoms. Screening is an important step in maintaining overall health and can improve quality of life. By regularly screening, potential diseases can be detected early, even before obvious symptoms appear, so the chances of effective treatment are greater. In addition, screening also plays a role in reducing the risk of serious complications by allowing for early prevention.¹

Examples of Diseases That Can Be Prevented with Health Screening

Some examples of diseases that can be prevented by conducting regular health screenings, include:^1,2

- Diabetes

- Cancer

- High blood pressure (hypertension)

- High cholesterol

- Heart disease

- Stroke

- Impaired kidney function

- Dental caries and other oral infections

Types of General Health Screening

Here are some common types of health screenings for disease prevention, including:²

1. Blood pressure checks, to detect hypertension which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

2. Blood cholesterol check, to find out cholesterol levels to keep them within normal limits and avoid coronary heart disease.

3. Cancer screenings, such as pap smears for cervical cancer, mammography for breast cancer, and colonoscopy for colon cancer. Early detection of cancer increases the chances of a cure.

4. Blood sugar checks, it is important to detect diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance so that complications such as kidney disorders and nerve damage can be prevented.

5. Reproductive health checks are carried out to detect disorders of the reproductive organs and sexually transmitted diseases early.

Simple Preventive Steps for a Healthier and Longer Life

Some simple ways to prevent disease and maintain a healthy body include:³

- Exercise regularly, such as swimming, cycling, or walking.

- Eat a nutritious balanced diet and limit the consumption of processed foods, added sugars, and excess salt.

- Schedule regular health check-ups.

- Prioritize quality sleep, with an ideal duration of 7-9 hours per night in adults.

- Manage stress effectively, for example by doing hobbies or fun activities.

- Maintaining an ideal weight.

- Avoid harmful substances, such as cigarettes and alcohol.

- Maintain social relationships with family and friends.

Regular health screening is essential to detect diseases early before they develop further. Therefore, do not wait until the disease causes symptoms because it is better to prevent than to cure.

Reference:

1. Staff administrators. The Importance of Routine Health Screening for Early Detection of Diseases. IHC Wonolan Hospital. Last reviewed: January 17, 2025. Available on: https://rswonolangan.ihc.id/artikel-detail-1044-Pentingnya-Skrining-Kesehatan-Rutin-untuk-Deteksi-Dini-Penyakit.html

2. Columbia Asia Staff. 10 Types of Health Screening That Are Important to Know. Columbia Asia. Last reviewed: January 23, 2025. Available on: https://columbiaasia.co.id/artikel/kesehatan/10-jenis-screening-kesehatan-yang-penting-untuk-diketahui/

3. Inspira Health staff. Top 8 Preventive Health Practices for a Longer, Healthier Life. Inspira Health. Last reviewed: April 2, 2025. Available at: https://www.inspirahealthnetwork.org/news/healthy-living/top-8-preventive-health-practices-longer-healthier-life