Health screenings are essential in identifying potential health issues early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. Singapore’s national health screening program, Screen for Life, offers a comprehensive and affordable way to keep track of your health, especially for residents aged 40 and above.
Once you’ve completed your health screening, it’s important to understand your results and what they mean for your health. This article will guide you through the process of interpreting your Screen for Life health screening results.
What to Expect From Your Health Screening Results
After your Screen for Life health screening, you will receive a detailed report outlining various tests and their outcomes. These tests generally include measurements for cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes risk (through blood glucose levels), and potentially screening for specific cancers such as colorectal cancer.
Your results will typically be categorised into different sections, making it easier to identify which areas of your health are within normal limits and which may require further attention. Each test will have reference ranges, and if your results fall outside these ranges, it will indicate the need for further evaluation or lifestyle changes.
Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Results
One of the most important aspects of your Screen for Life health screening results is the measurement of cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, which is one of the leading causes of death in Singapore. The report will typically show your levels of LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and total cholesterol.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): A high LDL level increases your risk of heart disease. Ideally, this should be low.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): HDL helps remove cholesterol from your arteries, and a higher level is generally better.
- Total Cholesterol: This is a combined number of LDL, HDL, and other lipid components. It’s essential to keep this within the recommended range to reduce your risk of cardiovascular problems.
Your blood pressure will also be measured, as high blood pressure can lead to conditions such as stroke and heart attack. The results will show systolic and diastolic pressure readings, and high values may suggest hypertension, requiring immediate attention.
Diabetes Screening: Interpreting Your Blood Glucose Levels
A key component of the Screen for Life program is the diabetes screening. Blood glucose levels are measured to assess whether you are at risk of developing diabetes. Elevated blood sugar levels could indicate prediabetes or diabetes, both of which require management through diet, exercise, or medication.
- Normal Range: Blood glucose levels in the normal range indicate that your body is efficiently managing sugar levels.
- Prediabetes: If your levels are slightly higher than normal, you may be at risk for developing diabetes, which means you should adopt lifestyle changes to prevent its progression.
- Diabetes: If your results show high blood sugar levels, a diagnosis of diabetes may be confirmed. This requires ongoing medical treatment and lifestyle changes to control the condition.
Understanding these results is critical because early detection of elevated blood glucose levels allows you to take preventive steps, reducing your risk of developing complications from diabetes.
Cancer Screening Results: What to Look For
Depending on your age and risk factors, Screen for Life may also include cancer screening tests. These can include:
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This test checks for signs of colorectal cancer by detecting hidden blood in your stool. A positive result doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer, but it does require further investigation through a colonoscopy.
- Cervical Cancer Screening: Women may undergo a Pap smear or HPV test to detect early signs of cervical cancer. Abnormal results should be followed up with a doctor to determine the next steps.
Early detection of cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes, so it is essential to follow up promptly on any abnormal findings.
What to Do If Your Results Are Abnormal
Receiving abnormal results from your Screen for Life health screening can be concerning, but it’s important to remember that early detection allows for effective management of many conditions. If your results indicate that you are at risk for heart disease, diabetes, or cancer, your healthcare provider will guide you through the next steps.
This might involve:
- Further diagnostic tests to confirm the findings.
- A personalised treatment plan that could include medication, lifestyle changes, or more frequent monitoring.
- Referrals to specialists for more specific care if needed.
The key is to take action early and follow your doctor’s recommendations to prevent more severe health issues down the road.
Maintaining Good Health After Your Health Screening
Once you’ve reviewed your Screen for Life results, it’s essential to take proactive steps to maintain or improve your health. This may include:
- Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.
- Limiting alcohol intake and avoiding smoking.
- Attending follow-up appointments or screenings as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Regular health screenings, paired with a healthy lifestyle, can significantly reduce your risk of developing serious health issues and improve your overall quality of life.
Conclusion
Your Screen for Life health screening results offer invaluable insights into your current health status. By understanding what these results mean and taking prompt action when necessary, you can better manage your health and well-being. If you receive abnormal results, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor, as early intervention can make all the difference in preventing more severe conditions.
