Medical check-ups: what they are for and how often to have one

Medical check-ups are one of the most effective tools for looking after our health and preventing illness. Although many people only go to the doctor when they feel unwell or have obvious symptoms that something is wrong, an annual medical check-up is usually essential.

The Granada Diagnostic Centre tells us that "preventive medicine is useful to update the general state of our health. It is also useful for the early detection of any illnesses that initially would not present symptoms or that require further tests to be diagnosed". These visits provide the opportunity to receive professional guidance for a healthy lifestyle and disease prevention. Taking care of our health should not be a reaction to something going wrong, but rather a preventive action that guarantees a better quality of life and well-being.

Why are medical check-ups so important?

The main purpose of regular check-ups is to assess a person's general health status, identify risk factors, prevent disease and monitor previously diagnosed chronic conditions. 

They usually include physical examinations, blood tests and other tests specific to each age, gender and personal or family history. Some of the most important reasons are:

• Proactive prevention. Risk factors (high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity) can be identified and action taken before they progress and become serious illnesses.
• Early detection of disease. Many serious conditions, such as cancer or hypertension, have no symptoms in their early stages.
• Updating vaccinations. Each patient’s vaccination schedule can be kept up to date, according to age and personal history.
• Monitoring chronic conditions. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or respiratory problems can be monitored.
• Medical advice. Guidance regarding diet, exercise, sleep and mental health can be provided.

Suggested frequency of medical check-ups, according to age 

Children and adolescents (from 0 to 17 years of age)

Paediatric check-ups every 6 months or annually.

The goal is to assess growth, psychomotor development, vaccinations, vision, hearing and nutrition.
 

Young adults (18 to 30 years old)

A complete check-up every 1 to 2 years, if there is no prior history or symptoms.

The goal is to check general health, such as blood pressure, blood tests, sexual health and prevention.
 

Middle-aged adults (31 to 50 years old)

Annual medical check-up.

The goal is to monitor cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, weight, lifestyle habits and perform cancer screening (mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies).
 

Older adults (over the age of 50)

Comprehensive medical check-ups at least once a year, with some tests every six months.

Follow-up of chronic diseases, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, osteoporosis, ophthalmological and hearing check-ups.

At any age, if there is a family history of disease, the frequency of check-ups should be increased or specific tests recommended by the doctor should be carried out.

Tips for getting the most out of medical check-ups 

In order for medical check-ups to be fully effective, it is important to be prepared and proactive. Some suggestions include:

• Keep a record of your medical history: inform your doctor about family illnesses, allergies, previous surgeries or current medications.
• Schedule check-ups: plan annual check-ups as part of your health calendar.
• Create a list of symptoms or concerns: write down any recent complaints, however minor, to discuss during the consultation.
• Follow up on the results: if the doctor prescribes further treatment or check-ups, comply with them in a timely manner.
• Maintain healthy habits: eating well, exercising, getting adequate sleep and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol are essential to complement the check-ups.