The importance of routine health check-ups cannot be overstated, particularly in the rapidly changing Indian healthcare environment. Regular health check-ups are crucial for preventive healthcare, supported by robust scientific evidence from across the world. Numerous studies highlight the benefits of routine screenings and examinations in promoting overall well-being. For instance, a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine emphasizes that regular check-ups lead to early detection of health issues, improving treatment outcomes. Early intervention has been linked to better survival rates in diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions (JAMA Network Open). Regular health check-ups are particularly relevant to people in India due to the unique healthcare challenges and conditions prevalent in the country. India faces a dual burden of infectious diseases and a rapidly rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses.

1. The importance of routine health check-ups cannot be overstated, particularly in the rapidly
changing Indian healthcare environment. Regular health check-ups are crucial for preventive
healthcare, supported by robust scientific evidence from across the world. Numerous studies
highlight the benefits of routine screenings and examinations in promoting overall well-being. For
instance, a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine emphasizes that regular
check-ups lead to early detection of health issues, improving treatment outcomes. Early intervention
has been linked to better survival rates in diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions
(JAMA Network Open).
Regular health check-ups are particularly relevant to people in India due to the unique healthcare
challenges and conditions prevalent in the country. India faces a dual burden of infectious diseases
and a rapidly rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cardiovascular
diseases, and respiratory illnesses.
India Disease Caseload – In Brief
The contribution of most major non-communicable disease groups to the total disease burden has
increased all over India since 1990, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory
diseases, mental health and neurological disorders, cancers, musculoskeletal disorders, and chronic
kidney disease.
According to the study report “India: Health of the Nation’s States”- The India State-Level Disease
Burden Initiative in 2017 by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), it is estimated that the
proportion of deaths due to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in India has increased from 37.9%
in 1990 to 61.8% in 2016. The four major NCDs are cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancers, chronic
respiratory diseases (CRDs), and diabetes. Non-communicable diseases led to 66% of deaths in India
in 2019, as per the WHO report.
Among the leading non-communicable diseases, the largest disease burden or rate increase from
1990 to 2016 was observed for diabetes, at 80%, and ischaemic heart disease, at 34%.

2. Key Factors that Cause NCDs are:
1. Tobacco use
2. Alcohol use
3. Physical inactivity
4. Salt Intake
5. Low fruit and/or vegetable consumption
6. Raised blood pressure
7. Raised blood glucose
8. Overweight and Obesity
9. Increased saturated fat consumption
10. Raised cholesterol
What does one do in this very challenging environment for health? Why have periodic health
check-ups?
The prevalence of NCDs and their increase in the disease caseload is a warning sign to take
preventive action. Economic growth means more disposable and discretionary spending, often on
food, drinks, and a sedentary lifestyle, which invites NCDs. How does one take care of health in such
a scenario? The answer is periodic health checks. Remember, what you measure is what you
improve.
Here are some factors that contribute to the importance of routine health examinations in the
Indian context:
1. Prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): India is witnessing a significant increase
in NCDs, driven by factors like urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary changes.
Regular health check-ups are crucial for early detection and effective management of
conditions like diabetes and hypertension, helping to curb the growing NCD epidemic.
2. High Population Density: India’s high population density poses challenges to healthcare
delivery. Regular health check-ups can serve as a proactive approach to identifying and
addressing health issues early, minimizing the strain on healthcare facilities and resources.
3. Preventive Care in Rural Areas: In rural areas, where healthcare accessibility may be limited,
regular health check-ups become even more critical. These check-ups can aid in preventive
care, early detection of diseases, and the implementation of basic healthcare measures.
4. Diverse Socioeconomic Conditions: India exhibits diverse socioeconomic conditions, leading
to variations in lifestyle, dietary habits, and access to healthcare. Regular health check-ups
help bridge gaps in healthcare disparities by providing a standardized approach to
preventive care and early detection, ensuring that individuals across different
socioeconomic strata receive essential healthcare services. Regular health check-ups can
help tailor interventions based on individual needs, considering the diverse health profiles
across different socioeconomic strata.

3. 5. Prevalence of Infectious Diseases: While non-communicable diseases are on the rise,
infectious diseases still pose a significant threat in some regions of India. Routine health
check-ups contribute to early detection and containment of infectious diseases through
timely vaccinations and screenings.
6. Environmental Factors: Pollution, inadequate sanitation, and waterborne diseases are
prevalent environmental challenges in India. Conditions such as air pollution, water quality,
and exposure to various pollutants can have a profound impact on health. Regular health
check-ups allow for the monitoring of health indicators affected by these environmental
factors, leading to timely interventions.
7. Genetic Diversity: India boasts genetic diversity, contributing to variations in disease
susceptibility and response to treatments. Regular health check-ups facilitate a personalized
approach to healthcare, considering genetic factors and tailoring interventions accordingly.
8. Urbanization Challenges: Rapid urbanization in India brings about lifestyle changes that
impact health. Regular check-ups can address the health implications of urbanization,
including sedentary lifestyles, dietary shifts, and increased stress levels.
9. Cultural and Dietary Practices: Cultural practices and dietary habits in India can contribute
to unique health challenges. Regular health check-ups provide an avenue for healthcare
providers to address lifestyle-related concerns, offer dietary guidance, and promote
healthier living practices.
10. Limited Awareness: There is often limited awareness about preventive healthcare measures
in certain segments of the Indian population. Regular health check-ups can serve as an
educational tool, raising awareness about the importance of early detection and preventive
care.
Conclusion
Regular health check-ups are highly relevant in India due to the unique combination of
epidemiological, socioeconomic, and environmental factors. Indians should prioritize periodic health
check-ups to proactively manage the country’s evolving health landscape. Regular screenings enable
early detection of prevalent conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, prevalent in
India. With diverse lifestyles, genetic factors, and environmental influences, tailored health check-
ups empower individuals to address specific health risks. Timely interventions through check-ups
contribute to better overall health outcomes and the effective management of prevalent health
issues, aligning with India’s unique healthcare challenges.
Explore various health checkup plans and health checkup packages available for you at CureEZ.
Consider the convenience of opting for a health checkup online to stay proactive in managing your
health.
1. Status of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in India, pib.gov.in, 08 FEB 2022 by
PIB Delhi
2. India state-level disease burden report, Vikaspedia
3. Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors and their Trends in India: National Library
of Medicine, National Centre for Biotechnology Information.
4. Burden of non-communicable diseases and its associated economic costs in India,
Science Direct, Vol 5 Issue 1, 2022