Take Charge of Your Health with Health Screening

Many people skip health screenings because they feel fine. No pain, no symptoms — so they assume everything is okay. But serious illnesses are being found in young adults who thought they were healthy. “We are seeing more young adults with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity-related problems, and even heart disease,” says Dr Azhani Akmar Azhar, Physician and Nephrologist at Damansara Specialist Hospital. These conditions were once linked mainly to older people, but that is no longer the case.

Why screening is important

· Silent diseases are dangerous: Many conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and high cholesterol, can develop without symptoms. Patients may feel normal, but damage can already be happening inside the body. “Early detection allows doctors to act before serious complications occur,” she explains, adding that waiting for symptoms often means the disease has already affected organs like the heart, kidneys, and brain.

· Lifestyle and family history matter: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and weight gain increase risk, while a family history of diabetes, heart disease, or kidney problems can put someone even more at risk. Screening helps identify these risks early and guide preventive steps.

Who discovers problems during screening

· Young adults often find problems by chance: Some come for medical checkups for work, school, or tertiary education requirements. During these routine screenings, doctors sometimes detect early signs of diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. “Many patients are shocked because they feel completely healthy,” Dr Azhani says.

· Cases in patients in their 20s and early 30s are becoming more common, showing that age is no guarantee of safety.

Who should start screening early

· Everyone from 30 years old should start regular health checks.

· Those with a strong family history or other risk factors should begin even earlier. “We are now seeing serious heart problems in patients in their 20s, Early screening can prevent long-term complications and guide healthy lifestyle changes.” Dr Azhani notes.

What a basic health screening includes

A basic screening is simple but effective. Typical tests include:

· Weight, height, and body mass index (BMI)

· Blood pressure

· Blood sugar (diabetes screening)

· Cholesterol levels

· Kidney function

“These simple tests give a clear picture of your current health and future risks,” she adds, and they can identify problems before serious complications develop.

How often to screen

· Once a year for most adults

· Every 3–6 months if abnormal results are found

Abnormal results do not always mean serious illness. Doctors interpret results together with symptoms and physical examination before deciding on further tests or treatment.

Screening alone is not enough. Healthy eating, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are key. “Medication can help, but without lifestyle changes, even the best treatment may not work as it should,” she advises.

Do not rely on social media for health advice. Always fact-check information and consult a medical professional to ensure it is safe and right for you,

Don’t postpone your health screening. Even if you last checked years ago, your results may not reflect your current health. Early screening allows early action — before symptoms appear, before complications develop, and before serious damage occurs.

At Damansara Specialist Hospital, Trusted for Generations, our commitment to Care for Life supports patients beyond treatment, guiding them toward healthier, stronger futures. For consultation or more information, contact 03-7718 1000 or visit kpjhealth.com.my/damansara.