8 Medical Tests That Can Save Your Life
- Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam
- Aug 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 10
Regular health check-ups can detect silent, potentially deadly diseases long before symptoms appear. Many life-threatening conditions like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and kidney failure develop gradually and show no warning signs until it’s too late. That’s why preventive screening tests are essential—they can save your life by identifying problems early when they are most treatable.
Here are 8 important medical tests that every adult should consider for better health and longer life:
1.
Blood Pressure Test
Why it matters: High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called a “silent killer” because it may not show symptoms but can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.
Who should get it:
All adults above 18, at least once every year.
2.
Blood Sugar Test (Fasting or HbA1c)
Why it matters: Diabetes can silently damage your heart, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Early detection allows for lifestyle changes and treatment that can delay or prevent complications.
Who should get it:
Anyone over age 30, or younger if overweight, with family history, or other risk factors.
3.
Lipid Profile (Cholesterol Test)
Why it matters: High cholesterol increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. It can be easily controlled through diet, exercise, and medicines if needed.
Who should get it:
Men over 35 and women over 45, or earlier if at risk.
4.
Pap Smear (for Women)
Why it matters: This test detects early changes in the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer. When caught early, it is nearly 100 percent curable.
Who should get it:
Women between 21 and 65 years, once every 3 years.
5.
Mammogram (for Women)
Why it matters: Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women. A mammogram can detect tumors before they can be felt.
Who should get it:
Women above 40 years, every 1–2 years.
6.
PSA Test (for Men)
Why it matters: Prostate cancer is common in men over 50. The Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test can help detect it early.
Who should get it:
Men over 50, or earlier if there is a family history.
7.
Colonoscopy or Stool Test
Why it matters: Colorectal cancer often starts as small polyps in the colon or rectum. A colonoscopy or stool test can detect and remove them early.
Who should get it:
Adults over 45, or earlier if there is family history.
8.
Kidney Function Test
Why it matters: Kidney disease often develops silently and may not be diagnosed until advanced stages. Blood and urine tests can assess kidney health.
Who should get it:
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or age over 50.
Summary
Early detection is powerful. These tests are simple, widely available, and often covered by insurance or health programs. Taking action now can prevent major diseases, reduce healthcare costs, and most importantly—save your life. Speak with your doctor about which of these tests are right for you based on your age, gender, and medical history. Prevention is the best cure.
Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)
Internal Medicine Specialist
Kify Hospital
Danavaipeta
Rajahmundry
Phone : 85000 23456
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