Whether it’s time constraints, fear of bad news, cost concerns, or lack of trust in the medical system, nearly one-third of respondents in a 2015 study by the Journal of General Internal Medicine reported putting off seeking medical care, even individuals with major health problems or who were experiencing symptoms. 

There is no surprise that regular check ups is a far-fetched idea in India, which is not an ideal situation. However, certain regular blood tests are crucial for maintaining your health and can play a significant role in saving your life. Here are six blood tests that can make a big difference: 

 

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C-Reactive Protein

CRP is a blood test that is a biomarker for inflammation in the body. CRP test is used to monitor the inflammation in acute or chronic conditions, such as inflammation related to bacteria or viruses, inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn’s disease, diabetes-related inflammation, autoimmune disorders, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, or lung diseases. 

CRP tests are usually done when someone is experiencing fever, chills, or rapid heart rate, rapid breathing or nausea or vomiting cases. If your results show a high level of CRP, it probably means you have some type of inflammation in your body. A high level of CRP may also be an  indicator of underlying cardiac issues. If you’re on the fence about how aggressively you need to reduce your risk, CRP results can help. However, a high level of CRP test doesn't explain the cause or location of the inflammation.

 

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Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is an important blood test that gives a broad overview of your health by measuring various substances in your blood. It helps doctors check how well your organs, like the liver and kidneys, are working. 
The test can reveal important information about your body’s chemical balance, including electrolyte levels, which are crucial for proper nerve and muscle function. It also measures glucose levels, which are important for understanding how your body processes energy and can help diagnose conditions like diabetes. 

Additionally, the CMP can show your nutritional status by checking protein levels and other substances, helping to identify issues like malnutrition or liver problems. For people with chronic health conditions or those preparing for surgery, the CMP is a useful tool to monitor ongoing health and ensure everything is functioning properly.

 

HPV Test

It is the medical test used to detect the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the body. HPV is a group of related viruses, some of which can cause genital warts and are linked to several types of cancer, particularly cervical cancer.

According to the World Health Organization's (WHO) 2020 report on cervical cancer, India accounts for nearly one-fourth (23 per cent) of the world's cervical cancer deaths. Cervical cancer is another health concern for women, and regular screening can help detect any abnormalities early on. Women should start receiving regular Pap tests at age 21, or earlier if they are sexually active.

 

Mammograms

Mammograms are X-rays of breast tissue that can detect early signs of breast cancer. Women between the ages of 40 and 54 should get a mammogram every year, according to the American Cancer Society. Women between the ages of 55 and 74 should get a mammogram every two years. 

Getting a mammogram is often the best way to find breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable. A mammogram can detect breast cancer before any symptoms develop. It can detect a tumour that cannot be felt. Some studies have shown that having regular mammograms can lower your risk of dying from breast cancer. 

 

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Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure  

India has become a country with a fast-growing diabetic population, with approximately 74 million adults living with it. Furthermore, 40 million Indian adults suffer from Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT), exposing them to type 2 diabetes. Also, 66 per cent of men and 71 per cent of women aged 75 and over have high blood pressure – but many don’t realise it as they often have no symptoms.

This makes it quite necessary for you to get your blood sugar checked on a regular basis. Identifying diabetes early allows for timely management of blood sugar levels, which helps prevent or delay serious complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems. Not only early diagnosis enables you to start treatment but also empowers you to incorporate lifestyle changes sooner. 

 

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Complete Blood Count

It measures different parts of your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This test can help diagnose conditions like anaemia by checking if you have enough red blood cells or haemoglobin. It also helps detect infections if your white blood cell count is high. For people with chronic health issues like diabetes or kidney disease, the CBC helps monitor how well their treatment is working. 

The test can also identify blood disorders, such as problems with platelet counts or certain types of cancer. A CBC can uncover underlying blood disorders, such as clotting issues and other blood conditions, that might not be immediately obvious.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

Regular health checks are essential for everyone, but they are particularly important for individuals who are at risk of or already have any underlying condition. Taking regular health checks can help detect the condition at an early stage when it is easier to manage and treat. With the UR.Life HRA, we help you to invest in your well-being through seamless interventions and targeted medical treatments. Our holistic wellness approach caters to all aspects of your well-being. We ensure that you can bring your whole self to work.
With our medical professionals by your side, routine health check-ups will never be an issue. Advanced laboratory technologies back UR.Life’s Occupational Health Centers (OHC), and with highly qualified experts/technicians, we’re committed to delivering trusted and quality recommendations, modifications and advice to you.