27 Get a health check

If you've arrived at 30 without any serious health ailments, then you may as well be stepping into the golden years according to medical professionals

If you've arrived at 30 without any serious health ailments, then you may as well be stepping into the golden years according to medical professionals. Says gynaecologist Dr Nita Dalal at Harkishandas Hospital, "All women should have an annual health check up that specifically includes a pap smear and a clinical gynaecological checkup that includes a breast check-up." Dalal adds that according to guidelines in the West, on condition that three successive gynaecological check ups turn out to be negative, women can choose to skip the check up for a year. "Most women don't get a yearly check-up done in India, especially after they have kids," adds Dalal.

Get at least one complete health diagnosis before 30 illustration by Gynelle Alves

Dr Santosh Shetty, Deputy COO at Kokilaben Hospital cautions that blood sugar and cardiac check ups are a must before 30. "One should really have a look at lipids and sugar levels. Earlier, a person dying of a heart attack before 40 was unheard of, but now we have 30-year-olds who have an attack. Also if one leads a lifestyle where multiple sex partners are involved then HIV and hepatitis tests should also be done."

A thyroid routine is also a must for individuals before they turn 30, besides a regular eye and ENT checkup, adds Dr Shetty.