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Important tests: which tests should be done regularly

A nurse takes blood from a patient for a general analysis
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Regular medical check-ups are not an unnecessary precaution, but a way to detect diseases in the early stages, when they do not yet manifest themselves as symptoms. But in the sea of laboratory tests, it is not always clear which tests are truly important and which are additional. Below is a practical comparison of key tests that are recommended to be performed even in the absence of complaints.

Why you should get tested regularly

  • Early detection of hidden processes

  • Chronic condition management

  • Risk prediction (e.g. cardiovascular disease)

  • Checking the effectiveness of treatment

  • Monitoring after surgeries, infections, vaccinations

In accordance with WHO, over 50% diseases can be prevented or significantly alleviate their course through preventive diagnostics.

Table with a list of basic analyses

Table: Comparison of the most important analyses

AnalysisWhat does it show?Who is recommended?Passage frequency
Complete blood countInflammation, anemia, infectionsTo everyone1 time per year
General urine analysisCondition of the kidneys and urinary systemTo everyone1 time per year
Blood biochemistryLiver, kidneys, sugar, cholesterolAfter 30 years or as directed1–2 times a year
Glucose (fasting)Diabetes riskEveryone, especially those who are overweight1–2 times a year
Lipid profileCholesterol and its fractionsAfter 30 years, at risk of CVD1 time per year
TSH (thyroid hormone)Thyroid disordersWomen over 30, with chronic fatigueOnce every 2 years or more often
Ferritin / Vitamin DIron deficiency, vitamin deficiencyFor fatigue, frequent colds, dry skinAs needed
CoagulogramBlood clottingBefore surgery, for varicose veinsOn doctor's recommendation
PCR for infectionsDetection of pathogensSexually active individuals, when planning a childAs needed or screening
Tumor markersPossible presence of tumorsPeople with a complicated medical historyOn doctor's recommendation
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Analyses that are often underestimated

  • Vitamin D — more than 80% Ukrainians have a deficiency. This affects immunity, mood, and bones.

  • Homocysteine — a marker of the risk of thrombosis, strokes, and pregnancies with complications.

  • Ferritin — decreases even before anemia appears; especially important for women.

  • Sugar after load (glucose tolerance test) - allows you to detect hidden diabetes.

  • Hepatitis B and C test — mandatory for medical interventions and for pregnant women.

Where is it better to take tests?

  • In certified laboratories

  • In compliance with the preparation rules (on an empty stomach, without physical exertion)

  • By doctor's referral or as part of a medical examination

Always save the results digitally - this will help the doctor compare the dynamics in the future.

Tests aren't just for the sick. They're for those who want to stay healthy. One day of testing can save years of life.

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