Screening — are examinations, tests, and other procedures to detect diseases or risk factors in people without symptoms. It is a simple and safe way to detect diseases early, which can develop unnoticed and manifest later in the form of complications. A 40+ is the age when the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes increases dramatically.
The Ministry of Health and partners created the new national program "Health Screening 40+" based on the recommendations of evidence-based medicine specifically for people over the age of 40 to undergo such examinations even if they feel well.
We will tell you below what examinations can be taken as part of the "40+ Health Screening".
Preparation, duration of screening
No special preparation is required for the screening. It is only recommended to refrain from vigorous walking, smoking, and drinking caffeinated beverages (tea, coffee, etc.) 30 minutes before the start of the study.
The screening lasts 60–90 minutes, depending on the scope of medical services.
Passing the screening
1. Examination and examination by a doctor (Physical examination).
During the screening visit, the doctor will examine the patient at least twice measures blood pressure and determines the average value in order to timely detect arterial hypertension (a persistent increase in blood pressure above 140/90 mm Hg), which is a key risk factor for stroke and heart attack, but has no symptoms. If arterial hypertension is suspected, home blood pressure monitoring or 24-hour monitoring may be prescribed for more accurate diagnosis.
Also a doctor measures pulse rate and rhythm. This is necessary to detect arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), which can lead to complications, including stroke.
The doctor also performs anthropometry: measures body weight, height, waist circumference, determines body mass index (BMI). These indicators identify the risks of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
2. Risk factor assessment and symptom screening.
During the "40+ Health Screening" the doctor conducts a survey regarding factors that significantly affect the risk of heart attacks, strokes and diabetes:
- smoking;
- alcohol consumption;
- level of motor activity;
- family history.
Also a doctor clarifies the presence of symptoms, which may indicate early signs of disease.
3. Laboratory studies.
«"Health Screening 40+" involves tests that allow you to see changes that a person does not feel, but which significantly increase the risks of diseases:
- lipid profile - to assess the risk of atherosclerosis (narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels due to fat deposits);
- Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test – shows the average level of glucose (sugar) in the blood over 3 months, detects prediabetes and diabetes.
According to indications, they measure:
- blood electrolytes (sodium, potassium) – to assess kidney and heart function;
- creatinine and eGFR – determine the condition of the kidneys;
- albumin/urine creatinine ratio (ACR) – early detection of kidney damage.
Laboratory test results will be available no later than 72 hours after the visit.
If symptoms or a high risk of developing the disease are detected, the doctor will create an electronic referral to the appropriate specialist.
4. Consultation with a doctor with recommendations for improving health.
After all examinations, the doctor, together with the patient, forms a personal plan:
- as improve nutrition;
- which one motor activity to choose;
- as control stress;
- as to quit smoking or alcohol consumption;
- as reduce body weight.
How to sign up for the "Health Screening 40+" and learn more about the program, read on its website. official website.