Test smart, not more
Many people choose the health-check package with the most items, assuming more is better. Good health checks and vaccination should instead reflect each person's age, history, conditions, anatomy and risk.[1]
Unnecessary tests can give false positives, cause worry and lead to further unnecessary tests.
Risk-based prevention is more useful
Risk-based prevention is more useful than indiscriminate testing.[1] For example, tumour marker tests in people without symptoms are not recommended for general cancer screening, because they can rise for other reasons and be normal despite cancer.[4]
Risk differs between people
Disease frequency varies with age, immune status and where you live.[1] This is why everyone should not receive the same set of tests or vaccines.
How vaccines and screening differ
Vaccines build immunity to prevent disease before it occurs.[1],[2]
Screening looks for disease in people without symptoms, within evidence-based criteria where early detection improves outcomes.[1],[2] Testing because of symptoms is diagnosis, not screening.
Information used to choose prevention
Before choosing tests or vaccines, review[1],[2]:
- Age and sex assigned at birth.
- Health conditions and immune status.
- Vaccination history: bring your records.
- Organs present, such as cervix or prostate.
- Exposure risks, such as sexual, occupational or travel risk.
Vaccines adults should review
Bring your vaccine records to review with your doctor. Depending on age and risk, vaccines may include[1],[2]:
- Influenza every year.
- Hepatitis B, and hepatitis A for some groups.
- HPV, according to age and shared decision-making.
- Shingles for older adults or people with weakened immunity.
- Pneumococcal vaccine for older adults or people with certain conditions.
- Tetanus and diphtheria boosters at intervals.
Doses and intervals vary with the product, previous vaccination, conditions and national guidance. Overseas schedules must be adapted to Thai practice.[1]
For people with sexual risk, site-specific STI testing at appropriate intervals is part of a health check.[3]
How we care for you at Dr. Kris Clinic
As family physicians, we plan health checks and vaccines to suit you rather than one package for everyone, explaining what each test is for and how results would change your care, in English or Thai.
We offer adult vaccines, including HPV and hepatitis, and STI testing for those at risk, with ongoing follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Should I have tumour marker tests every year?
Not if you have no symptoms. They are not accurate enough for screening and can cause needless worry.
I don't have my vaccine records. What now?
Your doctor will assess from what you remember and, in some cases, check immunity or revaccinate as appropriate.
Which vaccines do adults need?
It depends on age, conditions and risk. Review your history with a doctor.
My check-up was normal. Can I stop worrying about prevention?
No. Long-term prevention, such as exercise and vaccination, still matters.
Choose prevention and testing that can change care, with a follow-up plan.[1] More tests are not always better.
Talk to a doctor about this
Confidential care in Surat Thani, the mainland gateway to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Tue–Fri 17:00–20:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–15:00 (UTC+7)
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Dr. Krida Uakridathikarn (Dr. Kris)
Board-certified family physician with certificate training in clinical sexology and sexual medicine. He works at Suratthani Hospital and provides sexual health, hormone and LGBTQ+ inclusive care at Dr. Kris Clinic. Profile and CV
References
- CDC Adult Immunization Schedule by Age (2025 schedule, amended 2026)
- CDC: HPV Vaccine Recommendations
- CDC STI Guidelines: Screening Recommendations
- National Cancer Institute: Tumor Markers
Keep reading
Main guide: Sexual wellbeing
Chronic Conditions and Sexual Health: Diabetes, Blood Pressure and Heart Disease
Sleep, Stress and Exercise: Foundations of Sexual Health
Weight, Hormones and Sexual Health: What You Should KnowThis article is general education, not personal medical advice or a promise of results. Diagnosis and treatment require assessment by a doctor. Content reflects the cited sources as of the update date.