How often should I get a health checkup?

For a generally healthy adult, the frequency of full medical checkups typically depends on age, risk factors, and medical history. However, a common recommendation is to have a comprehensive health checkup once every 1 to 2 years. This allows your healthcare provider to monitor vital signs, screen for common conditions, update vaccinations, and discuss any lifestyle or health concerns. Adults under 50 who are healthy and have no chronic conditions might only need a full checkup every two years, while those over 50 or with risk factors such as family history of disease, smoking, or chronic conditions may benefit from annual visits. During these checkups, doctors often perform blood tests, blood pressure measurements, cholesterol checks, and screenings for conditions like diabetes or certain cancers based on age and sex. It’s important to also have routine care such as dental exams and eye exams yearly, and to seek medical advice if you notice any new or unusual symptoms between checkups. Ultimately, your healthcare provider can tailor the frequency of visits to your individual needs, so maintaining an open dialogue about your health is key.