The health checks every adult should get this year

Winter is the perfect time to get your health back on track. While many of us focus on fitness—whether that's a Saturday parkrun at Kings Park or a swim in the Indian Ocean—preventive health checks are equally important. Yet most Perth adults skip their annual GP visit.

Dr Sarah Mitchell from Subiaco Medical Centre says the basics haven't changed, but consistency matters. "People often wait until something feels wrong," she explains. "By then, conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol have already done damage."

Here's what every adult should schedule this year:

Blood pressure check. Free at most pharmacies on Hay Street and in Northbridge, or during a GP visit ($50–80 bulk-billed through Medicare). High blood pressure is called the silent killer for good reason.

Cholesterol screening. A simple blood test (bulk-billed) reveals your cardiovascular risk. Particularly important if you're over 45 or have a family history of heart disease.

Blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes often develops without symptoms. A fasting glucose test catches it early.

Mental health check-in. Depression and anxiety are common but treatable. Your GP can assess your mood, stress levels, and sleep quality—especially valuable after winter.

Skin check. Perth's intense sun exposure makes this crucial. Many clinics in Claremont and Mount Lawley offer skin cancer screenings ($30–50).

Cancer screenings. Women aged 25–49 need cervical screening every five years; men over 50 should discuss prostate screening. Bowel cancer screening kits are free through the national program at age 45–74.

Hearing and vision tests. Both decline gradually; catching them early improves quality of life. Vision tests are often bulk-billed; hearing tests cost $100–150.

Fitness capacity. If you're increasing exercise—whether preparing for a Swan River cycle or boosting everyday strength—your GP can advise safe progression.

Booking is straightforward. Most suburbs have bulk-billed GPs: try Nedlands Medical, Cottesloe Health, or WACHS clinics across the metro area. Many now offer online booking and telehealth for initial consultations.

The investment pays off. Catching high cholesterol early might save you thousands in cardiac care later. Detecting skin cancer at stage one changes outcomes dramatically. Prevention isn't glamorous, but it's the foundation of lasting wellness—just as important as your weekend parkrun or beach swim.

Always consult your local GP for personalised medical advice.

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