Hospitals and diagnostic centres report a steady rise in first-time health checkups among younger age groups over the past two years. Doctors attribute this trend to heightened awareness of lifestyle-related diseases, post-pandemic health anxiety, and easier access to diagnostic services in urban centres.
“Earlier, people came in only after symptoms appeared. Now, young professionals are asking for baseline tests to understand their health status,” said a senior physician at a multi-specialty hospital in Delhi. Common screenings include blood sugar, cholesterol, liver function, thyroid profiles and vitamin levels.
Health experts say the change is driven by rising cases of hypertension, diabetes and fatty liver disease among younger populations, often linked to sedentary work, irregular diets and high stress. Several clinicians note that early signs of metabolic disorders are being detected in patients as young as 25, allowing timely lifestyle interventions.
The pandemic also played a significant role in altering health behaviour. Exposure to COVID-19 highlighted the importance of underlying health conditions, prompting many young adults to reassess their long-term well-being. Corporate wellness programmes and employer-sponsored checkups have further normalised routine testing among working professionals.
Digital health platforms and app-based diagnostics have made preventive care more accessible. Home sample collection, online consultations and affordable health packages have lowered entry barriers, especially in metropolitan cities. Insurance providers, too, are increasingly covering annual checkups, encouraging early participation.
Doctors emphasise that preventive screenings are not meant to create unnecessary alarm but to establish health baselines. “The goal is not to over-test but to identify risk factors early and guide lifestyle correction,” said a public health expert. “Early detection reduces long-term healthcare costs and prevents complications.”
However, specialists caution against self-prescribed tests and stress the importance of medical guidance while choosing screenings. Over-reliance on online reports without professional interpretation can lead to confusion or anxiety.
Looking ahead, healthcare experts believe this early adoption of preventive care could significantly reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases. As awareness spreads beyond urban centres, routine checkups may become a standard health practice rather than an exception.
The growing emphasis on prevention reflects a broader cultural shift, with young adults prioritising long-term health alongside career and financial planning
