[Ilyo Shinmun] National health checkups are conducted either annually or biennially for citizens aged 20 and older, and individuals eligible for the checkup in a given year are notified personally by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). Specific details regarding the examination items and eligibility can be verified on the NHIS website or at a nearby designated medical facility.

Starting in 2025, the national health screening program has undergone partial restructuring, resulting in an expansion of both the screening items and the eligible population. This measure aims to strengthen the institutional framework for the early detection and prevention of diseases. With growing public interest in health, the number of people participating in these screenings has been steadily increasing.

Beginning this year, the Ministry of Health and Welfare has added the hepatitis C antibody test to the list of national health screening procedures for individuals aged 40 and older. Hepatitis C is a disease that is difficult to detect early due to a lack of noticeable symptoms; therefore, early confirmation of infection through antibody testing is crucial. Such testing can help manage and prevent the progression of the condition into chronic liver diseases, such as chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

The age range for osteoporosis screening has also been expanded. Previously limited to women aged 54 and 66, the screening will extend to women aged 65 and older and men aged 70 and older starting in 2025. This measure is part of a public health initiative aimed at preventing falls and fractures among the growing elderly population.

Mental health screening components have also been strengthened. In particular, the precision of screening tests targeting young adults and middle-aged individuals has been improved, and the assessment criteria for depression, anxiety, and stress have been organized more systematically.

This revision introduces a screening test for "early-stage psychosis." Psychosis is a condition that can have long-term health impacts, yet early detection and intervention are often challenging due to a lack of insight into the illness. Recognizing the importance of early intervention, this screening item has been incorporated into the national health screening program.

In line with these changes to the national health screening system, the Busan Mirae IFC Medical Checkup Center offers services that reflect the latest screening protocols. Baek Seung-hyeok, Director of the Busan Mirae IFC Medical Checkup Center, stated, "The expansion of screening items marks a significant turning point for the early detection and prevention of health issues." He added, "We will continue to provide information to ensure that those eligible for screening are fully aware of the updates and undergo their checkups within the designated timeframe."

With the expansion of screening categories and eligible populations, the rate of participation in health checkups is trending upward compared to the previous year. Health screenings have established themselves as a vital tool for disease prevention and early detection, and local screening facilities are stepping up their efforts to provide information and guidance regarding the revised system.

Details on the updated screening items and schedules can be found on the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) website or at designated screening facilities; individuals are encouraged to undergo screenings based on accurate information.

Lee Hye-rim, Busan/Gyeongnam Reporter (ilyo33@ilyo.co.kr)