What is a health screening? The best private health screening, Kent

A health screening may not sound like the most exciting way to spend your time but attending them is the best health insurance we could possibly give ourselves. Screenings help identify health risks as quickly as possible and provide you with peace of mind. The last few years have encouraged us all to think more about our health and how we can pursue a healthier, happier lifestyle, and a health screen is the best place to start. Detecting diseases like cancer early on prevents the spread of disease and improves a patient’s outcome considerably. Research also shows that bowel, breast, ovarian, prostate and lung cancer survival rates are drastically improved with early diagnosis. So, here’s everything you need to know about what you need and when.

In your 30s

There are certain life-altering diseases for which age becomes a risk factor, so by having regular health screenings and detecting problems early, your body has the best chance of fighting back.

Women in their 30s should consider having cervical screens (your cervical cancer risk is highest between the ages of 30 and 34), as well as cholesterol screening (if there is a family history of premature heart disease). If you’re thinking about having children, it can be beneficial to have a health check beforehand.

In your 40s

Once you reach your 40s, the risk of conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes increases. A health check that includes screening for cholesterol, diabetes, and kidney disease will help identify changes as early as possible. And while you may associate pap smears with your 20s and 30s, it’s still essential to get your cervical screening checks right into your 50s and 60s.

In your 50s

From your 50s onwards, women will be invited to routine breast checks to identify breast cancer through the NHS, which offers breast screening from 50-71. Another health risk that women should be aware of in their 50s is cardiovascular disease, as this age group, in particular, have an increased risk of heart disease following menopause. As oestrogen protects the arteries, a decrease in this hormone due to the menopause can cause changes in blood vessel walls that may cause plaque formation and an increase in LDL (bad cholesterol). Bowel cancer checks are also crucial in your 50s, and for men, a blood test, called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, measures the level of PSA and may help detect early prostate cancer.

In your 60s

The screenings that you’re advised to undergo in your 50s are also applicable in your 60s, but there are other health problems that this age group should be mindful of. As we age, our bone density tends to weaken, and women who have an early menopause are more at risk. After the age of 50, there is an increased risk of osteoporosis (thin bones), as oestrogen levels drop during the menopause. Your blood pressure should also be checked at least once a year in your 60s.

Easy access to five-start healthcare when you need it

Our health screens provide easy access to five-star healthcare at times which suit you, all year round. We understand the importance of convenience when it comes to healthcare as well as friendliness and continuity of care. So, we have taken each of these factors and packaged them up into our Well Man and Well Women Advanced Health Screens to give you peace of mind and confidence in your own health.

Your journey will begin with an in-depth 30-minute GP appointment to discuss your medical history and any current concerns you may have. During this time, your GP will create a personalised action plan to help you stay on track. Our health screens include a variety of screenings, including a full systems examination, advanced blood profiling (tailored to your requirements), an ECG, height and weight measurements, a urine analysis and a personalised medical and lifestyle report. Optional add-ons include cervical smear tests, a bowel cancer stool test, a prostate cancer (PSA) test and vitamin blood profiling.

Whether you’re currently experiencing symptoms or feel in good health, our health screens will give you an excellent overview of your health, pinpoint any imbalances or deficiencies, and provide you with expert medical guidance to optimise your wellbeing. We believe in the principle that prevention is better than cure, and health screens are an excellent way to stay on top of your health and detect signs and symptoms of illnesses early.