TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The health ministry is encouraging individuals ages 30-39 to get free National Health Insurance checkups.
On Jan. 1, the ministry expanded the NHI program to allow those aged 30-39 to access a free checkup every five years, per CNA. Those aged 40-64 can receive checkups every three years, and people over 65 can go annually.
Chronic diseases related to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol account for over 50% of the top ten causes of death in Taiwan. Since there are often no obvious symptoms, 40-70% of people are unaware of abnormal levels showing they are at risk of these conditions, according to the Health Promotion Administration.
Early detection can help delay the onset of chronic conditions, such as heart or kidney disease, emphasized Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源). Survey data shows about 60% of the population regularly gets health checkups.
Individuals can access checkups at over 6,000 NHI-contracted institutions in Taiwan. The public can consult local health department websites for more information.