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Top 5 Blood Tests You Shouldn’t Skip After 40

As we grow older, our bodies go through many changes — some are visible, like graying hair or slower metabolism, but others happen quietly inside. After the age of 40, the risk of lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and kidney problems increases significantly. The good news? Most of these conditions can be detected early with simple blood tests.

Regular health checkups and blood tests can help you stay ahead of potential problems. They can alert you before symptoms even begin, giving you the chance to take control of your health in time.

In this blog, we’ll look at the Top 5 blood tests you shouldn’t skip after 40, why they’re important, and how you can easily get them done — even from the comfort of your home.

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

What is it?
The Complete Blood Count is a common blood test that checks the levels of different cells in your blood — red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Why is it important after 40?

• Detects anemia, which is common in both men and women over 40

• Helps identify infections and inflammatory conditions

• Can point toward more serious issues like blood cancer in rare cases
   

What it includes:

• Hemoglobin

• Hematocrit

• White blood cell (WBC) count

• Platelet count
   

How often to test:
Once a year, or as advised by your doctor.

2. Blood Sugar Tests – Fasting & HbA1c

What is it?
These tests measure the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. The fasting blood sugar test checks your sugar level after 8–10 hours of fasting, while the HbA1c test shows your average sugar level over the past 2-3 months.

Why is it important after 40?

• Type 2 diabetes is very common in people above 40, especially in India

• Early detection can prevent complications like nerve damage, eye problems, and kidney disease

• Many people have prediabetes and don’t even know it
   

What it includes:

• Fasting Blood Glucose (FBS)

• Postprandial Blood Sugar (PPBS)

• HbA1c
   

How often to test:
Every 6–12 months, or more often if you're overweight, have a family history, or symptoms of diabetes.

3. Lipid Profile (Cholesterol Test)

What is it?
A lipid profile checks the levels of different types of fats (lipids) in your blood — especially cholesterol and triglycerides.

Why is it important after 40?

• Helps assess your risk of heart disease, stroke, and artery blockages

• Detects high LDL ("bad cholesterol"), which builds up in arteries

• Encourages healthy lifestyle changes before medications are needed
   

What it includes:

• Total cholesterol

• LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

• HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

• Triglycerides
   

How often to test:
Once a year, or every 6 months if you're overweight, smoke, or have a family history of heart issues.

4. Liver Function Test (LFT)

What is it?
This test checks how well your liver is working. The liver is responsible for digesting food, filtering toxins, and regulating many body processes.

Why is it important after 40?

• Modern lifestyle increases the risk of fatty liver disease, even in non-drinkers

• Long-term use of medications, alcohol, or unhealthy diets can silently damage the liver

• Detects hepatitis, jaundice, and other liver issues early
   

What it includes:

• SGPT (ALT), SGOT (AST)

• Bilirubin

• Alkaline Phosphatase

• Albumin
   

How often to test:
Once a year or as recommended, especially if you drink alcohol, are overweight, or take regular medications.

5. Kidney Function Test (KFT)

What is it?
This test checks how well your kidneys are filtering waste and balancing fluids in your body.

Why is it important after 40?

• Kidneys often get damaged silently due to high blood pressure, diabetes, or painkillers

• Early detection can prevent serious kidney damage or the need for dialysis

• Many Indians are at risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) without knowing it
   

What it includes:

• Blood Urea

• Serum Creatinine

• Uric Acid

• Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium)

• eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)
   

How often to test:
Yearly, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney problems.

Other Important Tests After 40

While the above 5 are essential, don’t ignore these additional tests:

• Thyroid Function Test (TSH, T3, T4) – for energy, weight, and mood balance

• Vitamin D & B12 – deficiencies are common in Indian adults

• ECG or TMT – if you feel chest pain or breathlessness

• Prostate Test (PSA) – for men over 45

• Pap Smear & Mammogram – for women to detect cervical and breast cancer
   

How to Book These Tests Easily in India

Getting a blood test today is simple and stress-free. You don’t even need to visit a lab anymore.

At SecondMedic, you can:

• Book blood tests online through our website

• Get home sample collection by trained professionals

• View your digital reports online within 24–48 hours

• Consult our doctors based on your results
   

Conclusion

Turning 40 is a milestone — and a reminder that your health needs attention. Don’t wait for symptoms. These simple blood tests can alert you to hidden problems and help you take action before it’s too late.

Remember, good health starts with awareness. Be proactive, not reactive.

If you care about your long-term well-being, Top 5 Blood Tests You Shouldn’t Skip After 40 should be part of your annual health routine. Book them today on SecondMedic and stay a step ahead in your health journey.