Heart health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and in Singapore, heart screening has become an integral part of preventive healthcare. Understanding the importance of heart screening, knowing when to get screened, and what to expect can help you take proactive steps towards a healthier heart. In this Health365 guide, we will provide an in-depth look at heart screening in Singapore, its purpose, recommended practices, and what you can expect during a screening session.
What Is Heart Screening?
Heart screening involves a series of tests and evaluations designed to detect early signs of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. The main goals are to identify risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and to find evidence of any existing heart disease. Early detection through heart screening can lead to timely interventions, potentially preventing serious health issues like heart attacks and strokes.
Why is Heart Screening Important?
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming approximately 18 million lives each year. In Singapore, the trend is similar, with heart disease being a significant health concern. According to the Singapore Heart Foundation, 23 people die from cardiovascular disease (heart diseases and stroke) everyday. It accounted for 31.5% of all deaths in 2022, which means that almost 1 out of 3 deaths in Singapore is due to heart diseases or stroke.
By undergoing regular heart screening, individuals can detect risk factors and early signs of heart disease, allowing for preventive measures and treatments that can save lives.
Who Should Undergo Heart Screening?
Recommendations from the Ministry of Health, Singapore
The Ministry of Health in Singapore provides guidelines on who should undergo heart screening:
- Blood Pressure – Individuals over 40 should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year.
- Cholesterol – Regular cholesterol checks are recommended for those over 40, individuals who have had a heart attack or stroke, those with diabetes, a family history of high cholesterol, and those with other risk factors like smoking or high blood pressure.
- Obesity – All adults over 18 should have their Body Mass Index (BMI) checked annually.
- Diabetes – Screening for diabetes should begin at age 40, or earlier if there are additional risk factors such as high blood pressure or obesity.
Importance Of Family History
Family history plays a crucial role in assessing heart disease risk. A family history of heart disease, particularly if relatives experienced heart problems before the age of 65, can indicate a genetic predisposition to conditions like familial hyperlipidemia, which involves high cholesterol levels.
What to Expect During A Heart Screening
The components of a heart screening can vary based on the package chosen, but generally include the following:
Basic Components
- Consultation – A cardiologist will discuss your medical history, symptoms, family history, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Physical Examination – The doctor will check for signs of heart and vascular disease, such as heart murmurs, abnormal breath sounds, and swelling in the legs.
- Cholesterol Check – A blood test to measure different types of cholesterol. This test requires fasting for 10-12 hours to ensure accurate triglyceride levels.
- Blood Pressure Check – Your blood pressure will be measured, ideally in a calm and relaxed state.
- Diabetes Check – A fasting blood test to measure blood glucose levels and HbA1c, which indicates long-term blood sugar levels.
- Obesity Screening – Your height and weight will be measured to calculate your BMI.
Advanced Screening Options
Beyond the basic tests, more comprehensive heart screening packages may include advanced imaging tests such as CT scans and MRIs to provide a detailed view of the heart and blood vessels.
Common Types Of Heart Screening Tests
Recognizing Warning Signs
Being aware of potential warning signs of heart problems can prompt timely medical attention. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- Fainting or dizziness
- High blood pressure
Post-Screening: What Is Next?
After your heart screening, the cardiologist will analyse the results to determine your risk of cardiovascular disease. Based on the findings, they may recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, dietary adjustments, or medications to manage risk factors. In some cases, further procedures or treatments may be necessary to address identified issues.
Schedule A Heart Screening In Singapore
Health365 has partnerships with trusted healthcare providers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Contact us for heart screening in Singapore and an introduction to a doctor.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.