Regular health check-ups are key to maintaining good health and play a vital role in preventive medicine. However, with the wide variety of health check-up options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Testing centers offer diverse check-up packages to attract the public, emphasizing comprehensive services and promoting round-the-clock discounts with no time restrictions.

But does undergoing a so-called full-body check-up really mean that all potential health issues are ruled out?

Does having a health check-up once a year or every six months mean that every single test is necessary?

To choose the right health check-up for yourself, it’s important to understand the purpose of the check-up and the pre-test probability of the specific tests being conducted.

1. Is the purpose of the check-up to investigate suspicious symptoms in your body, or is it simply for peace of mind?
2. Pre-test probability refers to the likelihood of diagnosing a specific disease before performing a particular test. It is generally determined by factors such as the patient’s age, medical history, and the presence of related risk factors.

Many people tend to focus on blood tests or radiological examinations, believing them to be the most accurate. However, a doctor’s consultation and physical examination are indispensable, especially when dealing with uncertain symptoms. Doctors can analyze a patient’s medical history, family history, and the specific characteristics of symptoms, along with any associated risk factors. A preliminary physical examination can also guide the diagnostic process, and its importance should not be underestimated. In most cases, doctors can determine an initial treatment direction after consultation and physical examination. Blood tests and radiological examinations primarily serve as supplementary tools. Therefore, the first step in choosing a health check-up is to find a trustworthy doctor.

Generally speaking, the most basic health check-up should include measurements of height and weight, BMI calculation, blood pressure measurement, and blood tests covering blood cell analysis, liver function, kidney function, and basic urine analysis. It should also include an electrocardiogram (ECG) and chest X-ray. Additional tests should be chosen based on the pre-test probability, which often varies according to different age groups and their specific health concerns.