Staying healthy isn’t just about treating illness — it’s about catching problems early. Many serious conditions develop quietly, making regular check-ups one of the most effective ways to protect long-term well-being.
Dr Dominic Greenyer, GP and Director at The Health Suite in Leicester, highlights five key health tests everyone should prioritise in 2026:
- Blood Pressure Check
“Checking your blood pressure is a simple first step, especially for adults over 40,” says Dr Greenyer.
- How: Use a home monitor or visit a GP/pharmacy.
- Warning signs: Above 140/90? Book a GP appointment. Above 180/110? Seek immediate medical attention.
Why it matters: High blood pressure raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage and can affect small blood vessels in the brain and eyes.
- Eyesight Test
Regular eye exams help detect vision issues and eye disease early. NHS recommends a test every two years, or more often if advised by an optometrist.
- Why it matters: Eye conditions can develop at any age, from childhood myopia to age-related macular degeneration. Early detection preserves long-term vision.
- Dental Check-Up
“Oral health is a key part of overall health,” says Nyree Whitley, Chief Clinical Officer at mydentist.
- Frequency: Every 12–24 months, or more if you have problems.
- Why it matters: Early detection of gum disease, tooth decay, and mouth cancers improves outcomes and survival rates.
- Cholesterol Blood Test
High cholesterol often has no symptoms, so testing is essential.
- Guidelines: Total cholesterol above 5 mmol/L, LDL above 3 mmol/L, or HDL below 1 mmol/L indicates high cholesterol.
- Why it matters: High cholesterol signals metabolic dysfunction and increases the risk of heart disease, strokes, and vascular problems. Lifestyle changes like exercise and reducing processed foods are recommended.
- Cancer ScreeningsThe
NHS offers national screenings for breast, cervical, and bowel cancer.
- Breast: Women 50–71 are invited for mammograms every 3 years.
- Cervical: Ages 25–64 screened every 5 years.
- Bowel: Ages 50–74 receive a FIT home test every 2 years.
Why it matters: Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
“Prevention is the most powerful form of healthcare,” Dr Greenyer adds. “These routine checks help you catch potential problems early and protect your long-term health.”
Click here to read the complete article in the Independent.