Why have regular health check-ups, especially in India?

The importance of routine health check-ups cannot be overstated, particularly in the rapidly changing Indian healthcare environment. Regular health check-ups are crucial for preventive healthcare, supported by robust scientific evidence from across the world. Numerous studies highlight the benefits of routine screenings and examinations in promoting overall well-being. For instance, a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine emphasizes that regular check-ups lead to early detection of health issues, improving treatment outcomes. Early intervention has been linked to better survival rates in diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions (JAMA Network Open).

Regular health check-ups are particularly relevant to people in India due to the unique healthcare challenges and conditions prevalent in the country. India faces a dual burden of infectious diseases and a rapidly rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses.

India Disease Caseload – In Brief The contribution of most major non-communicable disease groups to the total disease burden has increased all over India since 1990, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, mental health and neurological disorders, cancers, musculoskeletal disorders, and chronic kidney disease.

According to the study report “India: Health of the Nation’s States”- The India State-Level Disease Burden Initiative in 2017 by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), it is estimated that the proportion of deaths due to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in India has increased from 37.9% in 1990 to 61.8% in 2016. The four major NCDs are cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs), and diabetes. Non-communicable diseases led to 66% of deaths in India in 2019, as per the WHO report.

Among the leading non-communicable diseases, the largest disease burden or rate increase from 1990 to 2016 was observed for diabetes, at 80%, and ischaemic heart disease, at 34%.

Key Factors that Cause NCDs are: 1. Tobacco use 2. Alcohol use 3. Physical inactivity 4. Salt Intake 5. Low fruit and/or vegetable consumption 6. Raised blood pressure 7. Raised blood glucose 8. Overweight and Obesity 9. Increased saturated fat consumption 10. Raised cholesterol

What does one do in this very challenging environment for health? Why have periodic health check-ups?

The prevalence of NCDs and their increase in the disease caseload is a warning sign to take preventive action. Economic growth means more disposable and discretionary spending, often on food, drinks, and a sedentary lifestyle, which invites NCDs. How does one take care of health in such a scenario? The answer is periodic health checks. Remember, what you measure is what you improve.

Here are some factors that contribute to the importance of routine health examinations in the Indian context: 1. Prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): India is witnessing a significant increase in NCDs, driven by factors like urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes.

Regular health check-ups are crucial for early detection and effective management of conditions like diabetes and hypertension, helping to curb the growing NCD epidemic.

2. High Population Density: India’s high population density poses challenges to healthcare delivery. Regular health check-ups can serve as a proactive approach to identifying and addressing health issues early, minimizing the strain on healthcare facilities and resources.

3. Preventive Care in Rural Areas: In rural areas, where healthcare accessibility may be limited, regular health check-ups become even more critical. These check-ups can aid in preventive care, early detection of diseases, and the implementation of basic healthcare measures.

4. Diverse Socioeconomic Conditions: India exhibits diverse socioeconomic conditions, leading to variations in lifestyle, dietary habits, and access to healthcare. Regular health check-ups help bridge gaps in healthcare disparities by providing a standardized approach to preventive care and early detection, ensuring that individuals across different socioeconomic strata receive essential healthcare services. Regular health check-ups can help tailor interventions based on individual needs, considering the diverse health profiles across different socioeconomic strata.

5. Prevalence of Infectious Diseases: While non-communicable diseases are on the rise, infectious diseases still pose a significant threat in some regions of India. Routine health check-ups contribute to early detection and containment of infectious diseases through timely vaccinations and screenings.

6. Environmental Factors: Pollution, inadequate sanitation, and waterborne diseases are prevalent environmental challenges in India. Conditions such as air pollution, water quality, and exposure to various pollutants can have a profound impact on health. Regular health check-ups allow for the monitoring of health indicators affected by these environmental factors, leading to timely interventions.

7. Genetic Diversity: India boasts genetic diversity, contributing to variations in disease susceptibility and response to treatments. Regular health check-ups facilitate a personalized approach to healthcare, considering genetic factors and tailoring interventions accordingly.

8. Urbanization Challenges: Rapid urbanization in India brings about lifestyle changes that impact health. Regular check-ups can address the health implications of urbanization, including sedentary lifestyles, dietary shifts, and increased stress levels.

9. Cultural and Dietary Practices: Cultural practices and dietary habits in India can contribute to unique health challenges. Regular health check-ups provide an avenue for healthcare providers to address lifestyle-related concerns, offer dietary guidance, and promote healthier living practices.

10. Limited Awareness: There is often limited awareness about preventive healthcare measures in certain segments of the Indian population. Regular health check-ups can serve as an educational tool, raising awareness about the importance of early detection and preventive care.

Conclusion Regular health check-ups are highly relevant in India due to the unique combination of epidemiological, socioeconomic, and environmental factors. Indians should prioritize periodic health check-ups to proactively manage the country’s evolving health landscape. Regular screenings enable early detection of prevalent conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, prevalent in India. With diverse lifestyles, genetic factors, and environmental influences, tailored health checkups empower individuals to address specific health risks. Timely interventions through check-ups contribute to better overall health outcomes and the effective management of prevalent health issues, aligning with India’s unique healthcare challenges.

Explore various health checkup plans and health checkup packages available for you at CureEZ. Consider the convenience of opting for a health checkup online to stay proactive in managing your health.

1. Status of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in India, pib.gov.in, 08 FEB 2022 by PIB Delhi 2. India state-level disease burden report, Vikaspedia 3. Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors and their Trends in India: National Library of Medicine, National Centre for Biotechnology Information.

4. Burden of non-communicable diseases and its associated economic costs in India, Science Direct, Vol 5 Issue 1, 2022