Eight essential health checks everyone should consider
When you go for your yearly physical check, your doctor may recommend additional tests based on your personal health profile. Here are eight important health checks that can help you stay proactive about your wellbeing.
1. Health Check
Start with the basics: a simple Health Check is the foundation for understanding your personal health. Quick, easy and convenient, it measures your blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol and Body Mass Index (BMI) ‒ all in one sitting.
Going for a quick and simple Health Check can be one of the greatest investments you make in your health and your family's future.
2. Colorectal cancer screening
Colorectal or colon cancer ranks among the top three cancers for both men and women in South Africa. What's concerning is that many people experience no symptoms in its early stages, making screening vital.
Screening options include:
- Faecal occult blood test: A non-invasive stool test that checks for traces of blood. This is covered every two years for Remedi Medical Aid Scheme members aged 45 to 75, with an additional colonoscopy screening for high-risk members.
- Colonoscopy: A 30- to 60-minute procedure that lets doctors examine the inner lining of your large intestine using a thin, flexible tube. It can detect polyps and early-stage cancer before they spread.
3. Skin and mole checks
Skin cancer is common, especially for those with high sun exposure or a family history of the disease. Regular screenings help detect early signs and enable timely treatment.
During a skin cancer screening, your healthcare provider examines freckles and moles across your body ‒ including your scalp and between your fingers and toes ‒ for abnormalities.
4. Joint care assessment
Aches and pains can develop over time due to wear and tear. Your doctor can assess your joints and recommend supplements or arthritis care solutions suited to your activity level.
Joint assessments often test for:
- Osteoarthritis: 'Wear and tear' arthritis affecting high-traffic joints
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An inflammatory condition that can lead to complications if untreated.
5. Comprehensive eye examination
Eye exams can detect signs of certain cancers, including melanoma and lymphoma, as well as conditions like glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Fatigue, poor diet and chronic conditions like diabetes can also affect vision.
Regular eye checks are essential, especially if you have a family history of eye disease or diabetes.
Male-specific screening
6. Prostate cancer:
Prostate cancer often grows slowly and may not cause symptoms for years, making screening critical. Early detection can lead to successful treatment.
Common screening methods:
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test (a fingerprick test)
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) and biopsy if needed
Female-specific screening
7. Breast cancer screening:
One in 26 women in South Africa is at risk of developing breast cancer. Mammograms are the primary screening tool, and early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Remedi Medical Aid Scheme covers one mammogram every year from the Screening and Prevention Benefit, with yearly screenings for high-risk members, which is a richer benefit than industry standards.
8. Cervical cancer screening:
Cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer among women in South Africa. A Pap smear can detect precancerous cells early, and HPV testing every five years is recommended alongside Pap smears.
Why these screenings matter:
Preventive health checks are key to catching conditions early, improving treatment outcomes and maintaining quality of life. Speak to your healthcare provider about which screenings are right for you based on your age, family history, and risk factors.