Checkups

General health check-ups do not significantly impact life expectancy.

Current research indicates that general health check-ups do not significantly reduce all-cause mortality. Randomized trials show little or no effect on mortality rates from regular health screenings. Factors such as healthcare quality, patient adherence, and specific high-risk behaviors may influence these outcomes. The effectiveness of health check-ups can vary depending on population characteristics and healthcare systems, and most evidence comes from high-income countries.

While general health check-ups may not significantly increase life expectancy, they can provide individual benefits by detecting specific health issues early. It’s important to focus on known modifiable risk factors—such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, avoiding smoking, and engaging in regular physical activity—to have a more substantial impact on life expectancy and overall health.