In Singapore’s fast-paced lifestyle, it’s easy to overlook personal health amid work and family commitments. That’s why health screening is so important – it’s a simple yet powerful way to stay in control of your well-being. Regular health screenings can detect problems early, often before symptoms appear, giving you a better chance to manage them effectively.
Let us take a closer look at what health screening involves in Singapore, why it matters, and how to go about it.
What is health screening?
A health screening is a process where doctors carry out a series of medical tests to check for specific health conditions or risk factors before symptoms appear. These screenings are designed for asymptomatic individuals who feel healthy and have no obvious symptoms. The idea is to spot potential health issues early so that they can be treated or managed before they get worse.
There are various types of screenings. Common ones check for conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. Others focus on detecting signs of cancers such as breast, cervical, or colorectal. Depending on age and lifestyle, screenings may also include tests for vision, hearing or bone density.
Why is it important?
Many serious illnesses develop quietly. You may not feel unwell until the health issue has progressed, which makes it harder to treat. For example, individuals with high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes often do not experience any noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, over time, they can cause serious health issues and complications.
By going for regular screenings, you can catch these issues early. In some cases, simple changes in diet or exercise can make a big difference. In other cases, medication might be needed. Either way, the goal is to take action before your condition gets worse.
How often should you go?
The frequency of health screening is based on many factors like age, gender, lifestyle, and medical history. Here is a guide1:
- Once every 2-3 years if you are aged between 18 to 30 and in good health
- Once every 1-2 years if you are aged between 40 to 49 and in good health
- Once a year, once you turn 50
If you have a family history of health problems or certain symptoms, your doctor may suggest starting earlier or screening more frequently.
Where can you get screened in Singapore?
There are many options if you wish to go for a health screening in Singapore.
- Healthier SG Screening: A national health initiative in Singapore led by the Health Promotion Board providing subsidised health screening at only $5 or less for Singapore Citizens.
- Private Clinics, Screening Centres and Hospitals: There are wide range of private clinics, screening centres and hospitals that offer health screening packages, ranging from basic to comprehensive options. Prices vary depending on the tests you wish to do.
- Health Insurance Plans: Many health insurance providers in Singapore offer health screening benefit as part of their wellness programmes or enhanced coverage for their health insurance plans. These screenings may include blood tests, blood pressure checks, cancer markers or even a comprehensive screening.
What happens during a health screening?
Most health screenings begin with a pre-screening that requires you to provide basic information such as medical history, lifestyle, and any symptoms you may have. Basic measurements like height, weight, blood pressure, and BMI will also be taken.
Next, you may be asked to provide a blood or urine sample. Depending on your package or doctor’s recommendations, you may also require to do chest x-ray, bone density scan, electrocardiogram (ECG), or other gender-specific specialised tests such as pap smears, mammograms or pelvic ultrasounds for women and colonoscopy or prostate-specific antigen test for men.
What if something is detected?
If your test results show signs of a medical problem, you will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment with the doctor to review your test results. The doctor will explain what the abnormal findings mean and discuss the next steps with you. Sometimes, you may need more tests to confirm a diagnosis. In other cases, you may be advised to make changes to your lifestyle, diet or medication.
It is normal to feel anxious if something unexpected shows up in your results. But remember, it is important not to skip follow-ups review with the doctor as early detection often leads to better outcomes.
Making it a habit
We tend to go for check-ups once and forget about it until a health issue arises. However, health screenings should be a part of your regular self-care routine, like brushing your teeth. Try to schedule your next appointment as soon as you can and set a reminder so that you do not forget.
Conclusion
Regular health screenings are crucial for preventive healthcare. They help uncover hidden health risks before symptoms arise, giving you the chance to act early and stay in control of your health, giving yourself the best shot at a healthier, longer life.
Pairing regular health screenings with a comprehensive health insurance plan like PRUShield strengthens your preventive health strategy. PRUShield not only provides coverage for hospitalisation and major treatments but also supports wellness through benefits such as subsidised screenings, access to partner clinics, and optional supplementary benefits that reward healthy living. This means you’re not just covered when you're sick - you’re empowered to stay healthy.
Together, health screenings and insurance create a proactive approach to managing your health - giving you peace of mind today and a healthier tomorrow.
Find out more on PRUShield and other value-added services by speaking with a Prudential Financial Representative for a non-obligatory consultation for further guidance on products that suits your needs.
Footnotes:
Disclaimer:
This article is for your information only and does not consider your specific investment objectives, financial situation or needs. We recommend that you seek advice from a Prudential Financial Representative before making a commitment to purchase a policy. T&Cs apply. Protected up to specified limits by SDIC. Information is correct as at 18 August 2025.