Young adult’s circulation fitness screen – Male

This is a focussed assessment of circulatory health for young men between the ages of 16 to 25 years, often as they leave for university or military service. Young men may be unaware of underlying circulation heart and circulation issues that may need precautions to be taken during physical exertion and sport. The screen includes:

Treadmill test and exercise ankle brachial index measurement
Thyroid and familial hypercholesterolemia screening
Targeted cardiovascular assessment for young men and consultation to preserve circulation health

Diseases affecting the heart and circulation are a common cause of premature death in men. Yet young men often feel invincible and the shocking stories of even young fit male athletes having serious cardiac events are not uncommon. Whilst some conditions are difficult to detect early, awareness of circulation health and individual risks are important to prevent circulation injury from sport and physical activity and lay the foundations of a healthy lifestyle in young men.

This screening program is designed to provide a detailed baseline assessment of the health of a young man’s circulation as he enters military service, university and an independent adult life. This allows them to be aware of what the challenges to their circulation may be from sport, physical exertion and lifestyle as they grow older. They can then take informed measures to maintain circulation health and prevent complications from these circulation issues happening in the future.

Who is this screen for?

If you are a young man aged 16-25 years, and have never had a circulation health screen before, then this screening program is for you. Please note that if you are not yet 21 years of age at the time of screening, we will require your parent or guardian to give formal consent for this screening.

What tests does this screen contain?

Nurse assessment

For body composition measurements, BP, vaccination history including HPV vaccination, risk factor and medication record.

Urine test

For blood cells, sugar and protein.

Blood tests

Full blood count – low haemoglobin levels affect the ability of the circulation to carry oxygen; High white cell counts can signify infection.
Glycated haemoglobin or HbA1C – a measure of average blood sugar control over 3 months
Kidney function – poor kidney function can develop from a variety of circulation-related mechanisms
Liver function
Thyroid function – poor thyroid function can affect energy levels and mental concentration, academic and sport performance, body weight and muscle mass
Lipid (cholesterol) profile – to assess circulation health.

Chest Xray (with lower cervical spine)

This is to rule out a cervical rib and other thoracic abnormalities that can cause blood vessel complications in the chest.

Treadmill test

To look for the fitness of the heart in exercise conditions.

Echocardiogram

A check to rule out asymptomatic heart valve issues or small undiagnosed holes in the heart that may progress or cause serious complications during sport like diving or snorkelling.

Peripheral Arterial Hemodynamic study

A non-invasive assessment of the blood pressure and doppler wave forms of the arteries at various levels in both the legs, to determine the presence and location of any compression or blockages in the legs from abnormal fibrous or muscular compression bands, which may cause acute limb threatening complications in future.

Consultation with a senior specialist vascular surgeon

To discuss results and develop an awareness for preserving circulation health and preventing circulation injury as they step into university and independent lives.

How do I prepare for this screen and how long does it take?

If you have booked this screen, you should have received instructions on what to expect on-email or phone. If not, please call the clinic at least 1 day before the screen on +65 64720503 during working hours to confirm the instructions.
The screen is conducted over 2 days. Plan about 4 hours in the clinic on the first day and about 1 hour on the second day.
You will need to come in the morning on Day 1 having fasted (without having had anything to eat) for at least 6 hours. You may have clear non-sugary drinks, black coffee or black tea.
Come prepared for a brisk walk on the treadmill. Bring along a water bottle, t-shirt and shorts or gym attire, and running shoes on Day 1.

What can I expect on the screening days?

On Day 1 of the screen, you will first be registered for the screening. Parental consent is needed if you are less than 21 years old – so bring mum or dad along at the start.
You will then be asked to provide a mid-stream urine sample and have your blood tests as you are fasting.
You may then go and have breakfast and return to clinic where you will have the nurse assessment.
All remaining tests will be done after that and should usually be completed on Day 1. Day 1 may need up to 4 hours to complete.
On Day 2 (which can be scheduled to your convenience but would be at least 3-5 days after Day 1 to allow for all test results to come back in), you will see the specialist vascular surgeon for a consultation and discussion. Day 2 may need up to 1 hour to complete. Please eat and drink as normal on Day 2.

What if my screening detects a problem?

We will give you a detailed report and recommendations in writing to take away.
If screening results suggest you need further investigations or treatment, you will also be given a note for you to show your family doctor to make a formal referral to us. Further treatments or tests may not be covered by insurance if there is not a formal referral.
Your screening results and reports are NOT shared by us with your doctor or any third party including your insurers or employers. Sharing your report results with other doctors, insurers or employers is for you to do as you deem fit but is recommended.

How often is a young adult’s circulation fitness screen needed?

This comprehensive screen is needed as a one-off screen only as young men enter university, military service or begin independent adult lives, to ensure that any underlying conditions that may need future follow-up or lifestyle awareness are detected early. Any further follow up and treatment, if required, will depend on what the screening tests show.

you are covered

We are on the panel with most insurers in Singapore and with many international insurers; We also offer convenient options for self-paying patients.