Shashi Tharoor, Anupam Kher get full-body scans: How often should you get one in your 70s?

In recent news, actors Shashi Tharoor and Anupam Kher were spotted getting full-body scans at the same clinic in Beverly Hills, California. Tharoor shared a photo of his experience on social media, mentioning that he had the scan while in California and happened to meet Kher, who was there for the same reason. The two discussed why they chose to undergo the scan abroad, with Tharoor stating it was more convenient for him to find time in Los Angeles compared to India.

Their encounter at the clinic sparked curiosity about how often individuals in their 70s should get a full-body scan or comprehensive health check-up.

Dr Prashanth Rao, a leading expert in surgical gastroenterology and minimal access surgery, advises that people in their 70s should have at least one preventive health check-up every year. However, this year-long interval may be more frequent for those with existing health conditions or who are taking multiple medications. An annual preventive health check-up should encompass various aspects of an individual's well-being, including blood pressure, weight, nutrition, mobility, vision, hearing, sleep, mental health, and medication review.

Additionally, doctors should assess fall risk, memory, and daily functioning, as well as review the patient's vaccination status and age-appropriate cancer screenings.

While not every test is required for every person, Dr Rao clarifies that a blanket package of scans and tests marketed as a 'full body check-up' is not appropriate for everyone. Instead, screening should be personalized according to age, symptoms, medical history, medications, and risk factors. A regular preventive review is useful; however, unnecessary tests can sometimes lead to false alarms and additional investigations.

For individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, more frequent follow-ups may be necessary, depending on how well the condition is controlled. It is crucial not to dismiss new or unexplained symptoms, such as chest pain, breathlessness, sudden weakness, confusion, fainting, unexplained weight loss, persistent bleeding, or sudden changes in bowel or bladder habits.

Similarly, sudden neurological symptoms require emergency evaluation. Ultimately, the goal is not to get every available scan but to maintain a regular preventive review tailored to one's individual health needs.