Feeling perfectly healthy is not always a reliable indicator of your internal well-being. Medical experts are now strongly advocating for a proactive approach to health, emphasizing that regular check-ups can act as a crucial early warning system. This message has been powerfully underscored by a leading diabetologist from the national capital, who has shared a specific six-test checklist that he believes every individual should follow twice a year.
The Preventive Mantra: 'Jaan Hai Toh Jahaan Hai'
Dr. Brijmohan Arora, a senior diabetologist based in Dwarka, Delhi, recently took to Instagram to deliver a clear and compelling preventive health message. His post, captioned "Prevention is better than cure," carried a vital piece of advice wrapped in a popular Hindi saying. "6 test main aapko bataunga jo har 6 mahine mein kara lene chahiye. Jaan hai toh jahaan hai," he stated, translating to "I will tell you about 6 tests that you should get done every 6 months. If there is life, there is everything."
He elaborated that staying healthy and fit enables individuals to earn more, care for their families better, and face fewer health troubles. His recommended six-monthly checklist is straightforward but critical:
- HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)
- Liver Function Test (LFT)
- Kidney Function Test (KFT)
- Lipid Profile
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D3
Dr. Arora stressed that regular testing helps catch problems at an early stage, offering robust protection for long-term health.
Why Six-Monthly Testing is Non-Negotiable
This recommendation raises an important question for the average person: why is such frequent testing necessary, especially for those who feel fine? According to Dr. Palleti Siva Karthik Reddy, MBBS, MD, a consultant physician in general medicine, the logic is rooted in the silent progression of many diseases.
"Many metabolic and organ-related conditions progress silently," explains Dr. Reddy. "Tests such as HbA1c, liver function tests, kidney function tests, and lipid profile help identify early changes long before symptoms appear. By the time a person feels unwell, significant damage may already have occurred."
He emphasizes that a bi-annual testing schedule allows doctors to detect subtle trends, assess metabolic stress, and intervene early through lifestyle corrections or medication adjustments. "Feeling fine does not always mean internal health is optimal," he notes, highlighting that these tests serve as an early warning system rather than a reaction to overt illness.
Decoding the Vitamin Factor and a Balanced Approach
While metabolic panels are often discussed, the inclusion of Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D3 in this routine check is particularly significant for the Indian population. Dr. Reddy points out that mild deficiencies in these vitamins are widespread and frequently asymptomatic in the short term.
However, persistent low levels can have a gradual, corrosive effect on health. "Vitamin B12 deficiency becomes clinically significant when it starts impacting nerve function or blood counts, while low vitamin D3 affects bone density and muscle strength over time," he states. He advises that these values should be interpreted in the context of an individual's symptoms, diet, sun exposure, and medical history, not in isolation.
Ultimately, experts frame this regular testing not as a source of anxiety but as a powerful tool for empowerment. Dr. Reddy concludes that preventive testing should be planned, purposeful, and physician-guided. "When results are explained correctly, regular testing empowers individuals to make informed lifestyle choices instead of creating anxiety. The key lies in moderation, appropriate test selection, and professional interpretation."
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from public domains and expert insights. It is essential to consult your personal healthcare practitioner before starting any new health routine or testing regimen.
