A lot goes on in the human body. With more than 70 organs, over 200 bones and approximately 37.2 trillion cells, it’s a long list of body parts to look after.
It’s no surprise then that sometimes we put off our regular health checks – especially when we’re feeling healthy. It can take time out of our busy schedules to check out a health issue such as a lump or a new mole.
But in many cases, early detection of a new health issue can be life-saving. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the health checks you may want to consider, broken down by body part. Some health checks can be done by your GP or a healthcare provider; others you can do yourself. As always, if you have specific health concerns, it’s best to discuss these with your health practitioner as a first step.
Eyes
Did you know 90% of Australians say that sight is their valued sense? Small changes in your eyes can occur over time and because you may not notice any symptoms, you may not know your health is at risk. Eye checks can help identify these changes as early as possible, to treat and reduce the chance of permanent damage.
How often: Optometrists typically recommend getting an eye test every two years. However, your optical health professional will advise if you need to visit more regularly.
Teeth
Along with brushing your teeth twice daily (with fluoridated toothpaste), flossing daily, and avoiding smoking and too many sugary foods, trips to the dentist are vital to keep your mouth healthy (and your smile winning).
How often: The Australian Dental Association recommends that if you have good basic oral health you should visit your dentist every 6–12 months. However, your dentist will advise if you need to visit more regularly.
Blood
High blood pressure is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and, if left untreated, can lead to problems such as a stroke or heart attack. It’s therefore important to have regular checks with your health practitioner so they can help you maintain or reduce your blood pressure through healthy lifestyle changes or prescribed medications.
How often: It’s recommended for all adults over the age of 18 to have their blood pressure checked every two years. If you have a personal or family history of high blood pressure or heart disease, it’s recommended to have more frequent checks every 6–12 months or as directed by your doctor.
From the age of 40, if your blood glucose levels are normal you should also consider getting checked for diabetes every three years. However, if you have prediabetes you should be checked every year.
Heart
Seeing your doctor for a heart health check can help you better understand your risk of a heart attack or stroke in the next five years. Heart disease often carries no symptoms, so it’s important to check your risks frequently to ensure your heart is healthy.
How often: If you’re over 45 (or over 35 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) you should aim to have a heart health check every two years. It’s best to make it part of your regular healthcare visits. This can be performed by your GP and takes around 20 minutes.
Prostate
Around 17,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, making it the most common cancer diagnosed in Australian men after skin cancer. Risk increases with age; prostate cancer mainly affects men aged 60 or older.
How often: There is currently no national screening program for the early detection of prostate cancer. If you’re over 50, or if you’re concerned about your level of risk, speak to your doctor.
Testicles
Testicular cancer is rare; however, it is one of the most common cancers in men aged 15–45. The good news is that it’s also one of the most curable cancers if found early. Early detection means familiarising yourself with your testicles and what feels normal for you, so that you can be aware of any changes or new lumps.
How often: Be aware of what is normal for you; get into the habit of checking your testicles while you shower. If you notice or feel any changes, see your doctor.
Bowels
Did you know that 90% of bowel cancer is curable if it is found early? That’s why it’s so important to be proactive when you are eligible to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
How often: The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program allows eligible Australians between the ages of 45 and 74 to screen for bowel cancer using a simple home test kit. This should be done every two years. If you are under the age of 45 and have a personal or family history of bowel cancer, or are concerned about your bowel cancer risk, speak to your doctor to see what testing is suitable to your situation.
Bones
Osteoporosis affects 924,000 Australians and occurs when bones become weaker and less dense, leading to a risk of fractures from minimal trauma. While certain risk factors can make you more likely to develop osteoporosis, anyone over the age of 50 could require a bone density scan.
How often: Speak to your GP to determine whether you are at risk and whether you might benefit from a bone density scan.
Ears
You’re more likely to have hearing issues when you are aged 55 and over. Things you once took for granted such as holding a conversation in a loud restaurant may become a challenge.
How often: You should check your hearing every 12 months with your doctor after the age of 65. Don’t ignore the warning signs if you think you are experiencing hearing loss; your doctor can refer you to a specialist for a hearing test.
Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about your health, it's always best to chat with a GP.
