To reinforce the principle of "prevention is better than cure"... the Minister of Health launches the "Check Your Health" campaign
In a significant step towards establishing a culture of preventative healthcare in Saudi society, His Excellency the Minister of Health, Mr. Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, launched the “Check Your Health” awareness and prevention campaign on Monday. Organized by the Health Holding Company and its affiliated health clusters, the campaign will cover all regions and cities of the Kingdom, aiming to encourage citizens and residents to undergo regular checkups for the early detection of chronic diseases and the most common cancers.
Background of the initiative: Part of the health transformation in Vision 2030
This campaign is a key output of the Health Sector Transformation Program, a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The Vision embraces a strategic shift in the healthcare system, moving from a focus on treatment to one of prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles. This transformation aims to build a vibrant society with healthy members, reduce the burden on hospitals and advanced treatment facilities, and raise life expectancy to meet the highest global standards. Initiatives like “Check Your Health” are fundamental to achieving these ambitious national goals.
10 essential tests for early detection
The “Check Your Health” campaign aims to empower individuals to proactively monitor their health by offering a package of 10 essential preventative tests. These tests include screening for risk factors for chronic diseases and cancers, most notably:
- measuring blood pressure
- Obesity screening (body mass index)
- Early detection of colon cancer
- Early detection of breast cancer
In addition to other vital tests that contribute to diagnosing medical conditions in their early stages, which increases the chances of successful treatment and improves the quality of life of beneficiaries.
The importance and expected impact of the campaign
Locally, the campaign is expected to significantly contribute to raising health awareness among community members and encouraging them to adopt positive health behaviors. Early detection of diseases will also reduce the incidence of serious complications and lower long-term treatment costs. Regionally, the Kingdom is setting a leading example in implementing large-scale public health programs, reinforcing its position as a leader in healthcare development in the region. The campaign was launched during a visit by Minister Al-Jalajel to the “Make Sure for Your Health” center in Riyadh, which provides services through an innovative drive-through testing model, facilitating rapid and efficient access to healthcare services and reflecting the advancements in healthcare delivery in the Kingdom.
Capitalize on past successes and build upon them
The campaign builds on the tangible successes of previous prevention programs. For example, the Kingdom witnessed a 120% increase in colorectal cancer screenings in just one year, underscoring the positive impact of these initiatives and reflecting the growing culture of prevention as part of general health practices in society. The campaign's launch coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, capitalizing on the spiritual atmosphere that encourages attention to health and the adoption of new and beneficial habits.
