Health screening is a set of preventive examinations and tests carried out regularly to detect chronic diseases and risk factors at an early, still symptom-free stage. In Russia it is a free state programme under the compulsory medical insurance (OMS) policy.
The idea is the same as periodic check-ups worldwide: many dangerous conditions — high blood pressure, high blood sugar and cholesterol — go without symptoms for a long time, and the only way to "catch" them is screening. Some findings fall into the category of subclinical conditions.
Why it is needed
The main goal is the early detection of chronic non-communicable diseases (cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer) and their risk factors. The only way to learn about hidden hypertension, high blood sugar or cholesterol is to measure them in a person with no complaints.
Early detection of type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis and predisposing factors gives time to intervene with lifestyle before complications develop.
What it usually includes
First stage: a questionnaire about complaints and lifestyle, measuring height, weight and BMI, blood pressure, laboratory tests (blood glucose and total cholesterol), and for the relevant groups — ECG, chest X-ray and cancer screening (mammography, faecal occult blood test, cervical smear, PSA).
If abnormalities are found at the first stage, a second, in-depth stage is ordered — additional tests and specialist consultations to clarify the diagnosis.
How often
The frequency depends on age: at a young age the basic screening is usually done once every three years, and from a certain age — annually. Between screenings, preventive medical check-ups are available.
The point is not a one-off "full check-up" but regularity: it is repetition that lets you notice changes in your measurements over time.
Calculate using this marker
Calculators where Health screening is used directly:
Frequently asked questions
How does health screening differ from an ordinary doctor's visit?
An ordinary visit is prompted by complaints, when something is already bothering you. Health screening is planned screening of people with no complaints, to find a disease or its risk factors before symptoms appear.
Is health screening paid?
In Russia the basic screening is free under the compulsory medical insurance (OMS) policy at the clinic where you are registered. The scope of the examination depends on age and sex.