Darrick Robles If you are sick, you go to the doctor. But what good is a visit to the doctor if you are actually fine? In Germany, just under half of the women and not even a fifth of the men go to check-ups. The free check-ups are a great help to prevent serious illnesses and to stay healthy into old age.
When is which check-up important?
High blood pressure , diabetes mellitus and cancer can be treated better if they are detected early enough. Those with statutory health insurance can have regular free examinations to prevent health risks . We have listed the most important check-ups for all age groups, which are covered by all health insurers. Private health insurance companies often reimburse further examinations.
All over 18
Between the ages of 18 and 34, you are entitled to a one-time health check-up. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history and illnesses in your family. This is followed by a physical examination based on the medical history. The doctor will then advise you and give you recommendations on how to prevent illnesses.
women over 20
Women over the age of 20 should have a gynecological examination once a year. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history and examine you for cervical cancer. This also includes a cell smear from the cervix, the so-called pap smear.
women over 30
A breast examination is now part of the annual cancer screening for women. In addition to the routine medical examination, you should regularly examine your breasts yourself for lumps and other abnormalities. It’s best to feel your chest every month. The best time to do this is a week after the start of your last period, because that’s when you feel the changes the most. During the check-up, your gynecologist will explain to you how to carry out the self-examination.
All over 35
You are entitled to a general health check every 3 years from the age of 35. As with the check-up for under 35-year-olds, this consists of an anamnesis interview, a physical examination and medical advice. Since the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease increases with age, a blood and urine test is now standard. The following values are checked here:
- cholesterol
- blood sugar
- Protein, glucose and nitrite levels in the urine
- Red and white blood cells in the urine
Once you turn 35, you are entitled to a free skin cancer screening every 2 years. The doctor examines the entire surface of the skin for possible signs of black or white skin cancer. We also recommend that you regularly check your birthmarks yourself .
women over 35
For women over 35, the annual check-up at the gynecologist is still due. The Pap smear is now only done every 3 years and combined with an HPV test. This determines whether an infection with human papilloma viruses is present.
men over 45
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men . From the age of 45 you are entitled to a palpation examination of the prostate once a year. The external genitals and lymph nodes in the groin area are also examined. The examination is carried out by either the general practitioner or the urologist.
All over 50
Men and women over the age of 50 are entitled to annual colorectal cancer screening. In women, a test for occult blood in the stool is done. Men can either do the stool test (IFOB test) annually or have 2 colonoscopies at least 10 years apart. Women also have this option if they are at least 55 years old.
women over 50
For women over 50, a mammography screening (X-ray examination of the breast) is due every 2 years. As a rule, there is a written invitation from the gynaecologist.
men over 65
Men over 65 can have a one-off ultrasound of the abdominal artery. This serves to detect aneurysms of the abdominal aorta at an early stage. Studies have shown that men between the ages of 65 and 75 are more likely to have abdominal aortic aneurysms than women.
Warning signs to look out for
Early detection is the best way to fight cancer effectively . While the symptoms can be varied, there are some warning signs to look out for:
- unusual bumps or swellings that get bigger
- persistent difficulty in swallowing, coughing or shortness of breath
- persistent gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea
- blood in the stool or blood in the urine
- Bleeding of unknown cause
- severe weight gain or loss, persistent loss of appetite
- severe exhaustion and fatigue
- Persistent or recurring pain with no apparent cause
- unusual breast changes
- Wounds or ulcers that don’t heal
- night sweats
Get medical advice as soon as possible if you notice any of these symptoms or are unsure. Your doctor can help you to classify the symptoms correctly and, if necessary, put you in touch with a local practice.
