Persistent stress levels and poor lifestyle habits have undoubtedly contributed to the rise in silent-killer diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension and cancer. While advances in medical science have better armed doctors in treating many of these life-threatening illnesses, their efficacy is still dependent on how early any disease can be detected.

Dr. Chng Shih Kiat, a Consultant Family Physician at Raffles Hospital stresses, “We always hope to pick up the first signs of disease before any complications set in. Health screening enables us to identify high-risk patients, of course the earlier, the better. This is because we can then actively manage the risk factors and reduce the likelihood of them progressing to diseases and disabilities.”

As an example, early detection can identify previously undiagnosed high-blood pressure, and positive stool tests can detect colorectal cancer and raised blood cholesterol. Although pap smear abnormalities are not uncommon, they may not always indicate the presence of cervical cancer, they do highlight the need for vigilance and close monitoring.

In an era of rising healthcare costs, early health screening can also mean the difference between affordable treatment and costly, high risk procedures. Yet, there are some who continue to shy away from it. Dr. Chng identifies two main groups.

He discloses, “For one group, their biggest fear is discovering something really bad about their health. The danger is they are left unaware about any underlying condition or a mild, long-standing problem such as high blood pressure which may lead to a serious problem or even death.”

The other group includes those who feel that health screening is an expensive, tedious and stressful process.

While Dr. Chng concedes that it may have been a laborious task in the past, he feels it is a different story today. “Health screening is a fuss-free affair today since most standard screenings can be completed within an hour,” he adds.

A standard health screening is one that screens for glucose and cholesterol profiles; kidney function through a urine test, a stool occult blood testing, height and weight measurements and a blood pressure measurement. These are the bare requirements for individuals above 40 years old.

However, a doctor may recommend further tests and investigations for a complete assessment of the patient’s health. At Raffles Hospital, these investigations may screen for specific conditions such as heart disease, high-blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes mellitus and colorectal, cervical, breast and prostate cancers.

Patients of Raffles Hospital can choose from several comprehensive health screening packages that cater to their individual needs. In a distinctly cosy and private setting, tests are undertaken at a convenient pace. Patients can also discuss their respective health concerns with qualified medical professionals.

“Patients who go for regular screening are generally better educated about their health through interactions with their doctors. They are also more likely to live healthily and as such, their risk of acquiring diseases also decreases,” informs Dr. Chng.

A healthy lifestyle may significantly reduce your chances of succumbing to certain diseases but it does not mean you will never get them. Family history, for instance, is a high risk factor and should not be ignored. However, with early health screening, preferably at least once every two years, you are empowered to stay one step ahead of any potential illness, thus allowing early medical intervention and ensuring better treatment outcomes should they show up.