Health is a fundamental necessity that must not be neglected. Even minor illnesses can escalate into more serious conditions if not treated promptly. One effective way to maintain good health is through annual health check-ups. These examinations not only help identify both internal and external risk factors but also allow for early detection of diseases.
Early diagnosis enables timely treatment, which can prevent the condition from worsening, ultimately saving time, reducing medical expenses, and improving quality of life through direct medical guidance.
Many people still wonder, “Why are health check-ups important?” Today, Ramkhamhaeng Hospital offers the following insights:
The primary goal of a health check-up is early detection of hidden diseases, such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and early-stage cancers. These conditions may be influenced by genetic factors, which can be assessed through family medical history.
Health check-ups help evaluate lifestyle-related risks, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and insufficient sleep, all of which may adversely affect overall health.
With appropriate medical technologies and professional examination, health check-ups provide a comprehensive understanding of the body’s condition. This allows for preventive care and long-term planning to slow physical deterioration.
If abnormalities or early-stage diseases are detected—especially those without symptoms—doctors can plan appropriate treatments before the condition worsens. This increases the chance of full recovery and helps prevent complications.
Proper preparation before a health check-up ensures more accurate and reliable results. Morning is the most suitable time for these examinations. Those planning a check-up should follow these guidelines:
For specific disease screenings, consult the health check-up center in advance for conditions and preparation steps. Women who suspect pregnancy should inform their doctor or nurse before the examination.
Women undergoing annual health check-ups should avoid scheduling the examination during menstruation. The most suitable time is approximately seven days before or after the menstrual period.
Different age groups require different healthcare approaches. Selecting a suitable check-up program helps doctors provide accurate and comprehensive care.
A healthy adult typically has a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg, a pulse rate of 70–80 beats per minute, and a respiratory rate of 20–26 breaths per minute.
These measurements are used to calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI), a basic indicator of body fat and related health risks such as obesity or, conversely, increased susceptibility to infections in underweight individuals.
Blood samples are analyzed in a lab to assess:
Advanced testing can also include DNA analysis, food intolerance testing, and hormone profiling.
Normal urine should be clear, pale yellow to amber, and free from chemicals, blood cells, crystals, or microorganisms. Urinalysis can indicate:
A chest X-ray checks the condition of internal thoracic organs including the lungs, heart, respiratory tract, ribs, and major blood vessels. Women who suspect pregnancy must inform medical staff beforehand.
This test screens for basic heart abnormalities, including heart rate, rhythm, electrical conduction, and ischemic heart disease.
Using high-frequency sound waves, this test examines internal abdominal organs. It is a safe method for detecting various abnormalities.
Comprehensive health check-ups, including blood and urine tests, chest X-rays, EKGs, and abdominal ultrasounds, help identify underlying health issues. While these tests provide a strong foundation for health monitoring, check-ups can offer more detailed insights when tailored to one’s age, sex, and cancer screening needs.
