How often do you actually go to see a doctor? Probably you’ll tell me now: „ ..whenever I feel unwell or experience any kind of extraordinary symptoms.“ right? That’s the typical answer of most people from their 20ies to 40ies. But imagine you would see a doctor once or twice a year – not because you feel unwell, but because you want to make the best of each moment of your life, of your health and of your body? Because you want to be the best version of yourself, boost your performance, feel absolutely amazing and live as light, long and vital as possible? 

 

Dr. Erat, what is „HealthUp Switzerland”?

It’s an initiative that is advocating and informing the public about the potential of healthy lifestyles and personalized preventive medicine. It allows people to optimize their health and to reach better performance. The initiative also aims to raise awareness of the importance of check-ups as well as when and how to conduct them – State of the art check-ups!

What is the Check-Up Center Hirslanden’s expertise?

We have over 15 years of experience in preventive medicine with a vast network of national and international medical experts. Our partner doctors are highly skilled in clinical medicine, many with a career in research and in teaching the next generation of medical students and doctors.

Who should should have a check-up done?

Anyone who wants to optimize his or her health and analyze risk factors of disease as well as treat any medical condition early on should have a check-up. In persons with a specific medical condition, the key is early detection and treatment on order to avoid unnecessary complications and optimize outcome of therapy. Hence, check-ups should be conducted fairly regularly to diagnose a disease at an early stage. Our check-ups are always designed around personalized needs, history of disease – including family history – and genetic background.

When should people start with check-ups?

The question to ask are 1) when, 2) why and 3) how to conduct a check-up. Ideally people should get checked before showing any kind of symptoms. This means preventatively. This on the other side depends on life-style, risk factors, family history and gender. Top athletes, for instance, need a yearly pre-participation evaluation at all ages each season in order to avoid unnecessary sudden cardiac death among others. But also persons without Olympic ambitions, should be checked before initiating serious training programs. Otherwise, a general check-up is advisable as of the age of approximately 30 years of age in low risk and symptom free persons.

What are check-ups able to prevent?

Leading causes of disability and death, such as cardiac death and certain cancers among many others. In athletes, check-ups aim to prevent overuse injuries and boost performance. Furthermore, check-ups aim to analyze the individual fitness level, behavioral patterns and risk behavior, to identify nutritional deficiencies, and to diagnose any underlying disease. Finally, a personalized training and nutrition plan will be designed based on the testes, and any necessary therapies and nutritional supplements will be prescribed.

Should I have check-ups/visit doctors during the pandemic?

Firstly, check-ups aim to improve health including the management of chronic disease such as high blood pressure, cancer and lung-disease, all of which are risk factors of COVID-19. Secondly, the risk of catching COVID-19 in the hospital is lower than elsewhere because of the strict hygiene and safety measures. Finally, there are other health issues that need to be addressed and looked after regardless of the pandemic.

What is your personal advise for preventive health and to people in 2022?

At the Check-up Center Hirslanden, we understand the challenges and demands of today’s fast-changing world and we recognize the importance of optimal health in everyday life. Particularly in these challenging times of the COIVD-19 Pandemic. After all, good health is the prerequisite for sustained physical and mental performance – both professionally and privately. But knowing what to do is only half the battle. Sustainable habit change often requires on-going support. With our holistic focus, we aim to sustainably increase our client’s well-being, performance and state of health. Yet, in the end wellbeing is also heavily dependent on a balanced & loving personal life and a healthy environment & nature. In 2022, we should put even more emphasis on nourishing our relationships with family and friends, check in on our loved ones on a regular basis, and to take care of our environment and Mother Earth.

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Thank you very much Dr. Anna Erat, for this interview and the collaboration. I am very honored to be working with you on this fantastic initiative.

Follow HEALTHUP SWITZERLAND on INSTAGRAM (and Facebook) or make your appointment here:

HIRSLANDEN Check-Up Zentrum
Witellikerstrasse 40
CH-8032 Zürich
Tel: +41 44 387 2050
Email