Free health check-ups in Komi uncover hidden medical risks for thousands

Why Regular Health Check-Ups Are Essential: A Doctor's Perspective from Vuktyl

Some still dismiss routine medical examinations as a waste of time. Yet real-world experience tells a different story. This year alone, 880 residents of Vuktyl have undergone full health check-ups, with another 251 completing preventive screenings—and many have discovered previously undetected health issues.

To explain why these exams matter and what they entail, we spoke with Valery Rossamakhin, a general practitioner at the Vuktyl Central District Hospital.

What Does a Health Check-Up Involve?

Stage One: Initial Assessment The process begins with a detailed consultation, which patients sometimes underestimate. However, this step is critical. The doctor collects a full medical history, evaluates genetic predispositions, lifestyle risks (such as smoking or alcohol use), past injuries, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and checks blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Even at this stage, potential health concerns may come to light.

Next, patients undergo basic diagnostic tests, including: - Chest X-ray (fluorography) - Electrocardiogram (ECG) - Blood tests

Additional Screenings by Age and Gender - Women are advised to visit a gynecologist annually and, after age 40, undergo mammograms every two years. - Men over 45 should have a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test to detect early signs of prostate cancer.

Based on the results, patients are assigned to one of three health groups, determining their next steps: - Group 1: Good health, low cardiovascular risk. - Group 2: No chronic conditions, but risk factors present (e.g., high cholesterol, smoking, alcohol use). - Group 3: Chronic illnesses requiring ongoing monitoring and treatment.

Stage Two: Advanced Diagnostics (If Needed) If signs of disease or potential abnormalities are detected, patients proceed to a second phase involving specialized tests and consultations with narrow-profile doctors.

A Wake-Up Call: One Patient's Story

A 36-year-old man recently came in for a check-up, assuming he was perfectly healthy—he hadn't seen a doctor in years and had no complaints. The examination revealed suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Now undergoing further testing, he admitted: "I'm grateful I had this check-up. I could have kept running around, thinking I was fine—only to end up in the hospital with a heart attack." His message to fellow Vuktyl residents: "Don't put off your doctor's visit. Get checked now."

Free and Accessible Under Russia's National Project

These examinations are part of the "Long and Active Life" national initiative and are provided free of charge. To schedule one, simply contact your primary care physician.

This year, 640,000 residents of the Republic of Komi are eligible for check-ups—111,000 have already completed theirs. Don't wait until symptoms appear: early detection saves lives.