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๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Kyrgyzstan /Health & Science

Feeling Fine Doesn't Mean You're Healthy: The Importance of Medical Check-ups

From 24.kg · () Russian

Translated from Russian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Many serious diseases develop without symptoms, leading to late diagnosis.
  • Non-communicable diseases cause 74% of global deaths, with cardiovascular diseases and cancer being major concerns in Kyrgyzstan.
  • Regular comprehensive medical check-ups (check-ups) are crucial for early detection and prevention.

Feeling healthy does not always mean being free of serious illness, as many diseases progress silently. This reality underscores the growing global emphasis on preventive healthcare and early diagnostics. The World Health Organization reports that non-communicable diseases like heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes account for 74 percent of all deaths worldwide. In Kyrgyzstan, the situation is particularly concerning, with cardiovascular diseases responsible for over 50 percent of all fatalities annually, followed by cancer and respiratory illnesses. Specialists highlight that a significant portion of these conditions develop gradually, often without noticeable symptoms until they reach advanced stages. However, timely medical examinations can identify many of these diseases early, before severe complications arise.

A 'check-up,' or comprehensive medical examination, aims to detect hidden health issues before symptoms appear. It involves more than just basic tests; while blood work reveals internal processes like inflammation and organ function biochemically, a full check-up also includes imaging such as ultrasounds to assess organ structure, X-rays or CT scans for lung and bone abnormalities, and endoscopy for early gastrointestinal changes. Cardiac evaluations like ECG and echocardiography, along with continuous monitoring for blood pressure and heart rhythm, provide a complete health picture. Experts recommend starting basic check-ups around age 25, with more extensive diagnostics from age 35, or earlier if there are hereditary risk factors. Specialists note that stress and lifestyle factors increase risks after 25, making regular monitoring a vital health investment.

In Bishkek, the "Avicenna" medical network offers comprehensive check-ups designed as a streamlined system. Patients can undergo all necessary examinations and consultations within a single clinic, with tailored packages for different age groups and health needs. This approach eliminates the need for patients to coordinate appointments independently, providing a clear diagnostic pathway. Upon completion, individuals receive a "health passport" with personalized recommendations. These examinations typically take two to three days. "Avicenna" provides various check-up options, including a basic package for initial health assessment (covering ultrasounds of seven organs, 21 lab tests, two diagnostic tests, and a therapist consultation) and an optimal package for extended prevention (including ultrasounds of nine organs and 44 lab tests), with additional specialized packages available.

After 25 years, the influence of stress, lifestyle, and hidden risk factors increases. Regular monitoring is an investment in health.

โ€” SpecialistsRegarding the recommended age to start regular medical check-ups.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by 24.kg in Russian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.