Health Screening Singapore

What is a general health screening?

There is no doubt that stress, lifestyle factors, and general rigors of life can be the precursor to poor health. Contemporary Singaporean society is not spared the negative effects of modern life. To add fuel to fire, there is also generally a lack of proactivity to go for general health screenings and detect potential medical conditions that may be currently dormant. Singaporean men often don’t take care of themselves as diligently as they should.

Making an appointment for a general health check up is one of the best measures for early detection of latent diseases. Doctors are able to pinpoint problems before unpleasant symptoms begin.

The following Q&A segment will provide answers to any of the questions that you may have on health screening. Let’s screen for life!

Which health screenings are recommended in Singapore?

It depends on factors like your age and gender. At Dr Ben Medical, our health screening packages include:

Basic health screening

A basic full-body health screening test includes screening for obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol as well as a physical examination. Other tests such as liver, kidney and thyroid function tests are also carried out.  Individuals above age 18 should go for annual basic health screening tests. In between on your end, you should also regularly keep track of your waist circumference, body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure. Basic health screening tests are recommended for those who want a fuss-free, convenient and cost-effective health checkup.

Comprehensive health screening

A comprehensive health screening test consists of various tests to add on to your basic health screening test. Not everyone will require a comprehensive health screening test; it depends on your risk factors (i.e. family history of certain illnesses) and lifestyle habits that could potentially lead to chronic diseases or lifelong infections. Your doctor would be able to advise better.

Specific health screening

A specific health screening test includes screening for common cancers in Singapore including testicular cancer, colon cancer and prostate cancer. Adults aged 50 and above, especially men, should undergo a stool test for blood or colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer. If you have a family history of the above cancers, you should start screening at an earlier age. Early detection is key in saving lives — we cannot stress this enough. We have different health screening packages to cater to your needs; we recommend including cancer blood tests, hormonal testing and sexual health screening as part of your general health screening.

Health Screening Packages

What should I do before my health screening in Singapore?

If your health screening includes bloodwork and it most likely will, you will be required to fast. Health screenings usually include tests that record your cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood glucose levels. You will be required to fast for at least eight hours before your appointment. If you do not follow these instructions, the accuracy of your results will be affected.

You will be allowed to eat after the tests are finished. You can have water before and during your appointment if you get hungry.

If you are on medications, ask your doctor whether or not you should take them before your screening. For instance, diabetics are asked to refrain from taking their medication before the screening.

How long does a health screening in Singapore take?

The average health screening can last anywhere between 30 mins to 1 hour. You should also factor in more time if you have a complicated medical history.

What documents should I provide my doctor with at my health screening in Singapore?

Be sure to take along the following documents and items to your health screening.

• Any previous medical test results, health records, blood test results, X-rays, and MRI scans.
• List of the medications that you are currently taking, both over the counter and prescribed.
• Spectacles or contact lenses.
• Passport, Employment pass, work permit if applicable, Singapore NRIC.

What if I get sick before my health screening?

If you feel ill, you should contact your doctor and describe the symptoms that you are having. Your doctor may ask you to exercise some precautions or recommend a re-scheduling.

When will my results be ready?

It usually takes 5-7 days for your results to come back. Depending on your results, that is to say, if any abnormalities were detected, your doctor might recommend additional testing. At this point, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled. If you need medical attention right away this will also be addressed.

How often should I have medical screenings done?

It is recommended that you should have a health screening every year. Even if you are not experiencing any symptoms, it is an excellent way to monitor any changes in your health.

What if I want more information?

You are free to ask about any tests that you are unclear about. Your doctor will be happy to provide the answers that you require. If you are interested in additional screening tests you can discuss this as well. Your health screening is your personal audience with your doctor so ask anything that you need to.

Health screening for men continues to be a powerful disease prevention tool.

If you have not been to see your doctor in years, it may be time to schedule an appointment to ensure your continued health and wellness.