I would like a preventive cardiac check-up
“Wise people prepare before the need arises.” A cardiac check-up at important, regular stages of life can give us the opportunity to enjoy life with fewer worries and without medication.
Today we know of several lifestyle changes that slow deterioration. We can also identify harmful habits that accelerate it — and change them together. Disease does not have an on/off switch; it is often the eventual expression of habits we had decades before it appeared. That earlier period was therefore the best time to visit a cardiologist. If you have not already done so, now is the right time for a preventive check-up.
Who needs a preventive check-up?
As a broad generalisation for people without known problems, a comprehensive cardiac assessment is advisable at certain important milestones: starting primary school (age 6), starting secondary school (age 12), reaching adulthood, and then certainly once every decade.
If there are findings or specific reasons — a condition being treated, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, or a strong family history — the intervals may be shorter. The cardiologist will advise when the next assessment is needed in each case.
Common questions, answered in advance
“At what age should I start?”
Alongside general examinations and the important milestones mentioned earlier, another easy rule to remember is that age 40 is a key point to take your check-ups more seriously. Be aware that harmful habits begin to affect us much earlier — unfortunately, the body does not forget what happened at a younger age.
“How often should it be repeated?”
An easy way to remember your check-ups is to link them to your birthday. As your birthday approaches, give your health a real gift and schedule your assessment: every five or ten years between adulthood and age 40, and more frequently afterwards.
“What does the examination include?”
A preventive cardiac assessment includes:
- A detailed discussion of your personal and family history and habits, including diet, exercise and smoking.
- A clinical examination.
- An echocardiogram.
- An electrocardiogram.
When the cardiologist considers it appropriate, further tests — such as an exercise stress test, Holter ECG, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring or other investigations — may complete the assessment.
“Is preparation needed?”
No preparation is needed for the usual comprehensive cardiac assessment (echocardiogram and electrocardiogram). For blood tests, a 12-hour fast is observed before the blood sample is taken.
Do you take part in sport?
In Greece, fairly strict legislation requires assessment for people participating in organised sport. Its purpose is neither to inconvenience people nor to impose a financial burden. The value of life comes first: we want to identify in good time whatever modern medicine can reveal. Treating a sports certificate as “just a signature” primarily puts the athlete themselves at a disadvantage.
Book a check-up
The first step towards a heart without surprises.