Do you have a computer? Have you installed anti-virus software to protect it from innumerable computer viruses and worms? Of course you want to prevent disastrous data loss before it's too late, but how about your own health?

Do you own a car? Do you take your car for regular check-ups to see if there is any hidden problem in the brake system and if anything needs fixing before it goes worst? Of course you want to arrive home safe and sound, but have you ever thought that your own body also deserves such kind of "service"?

Many studies show that men are less likely to visit a doctor without being prompted. They tend to ignore warning signs about their health, only to discover serious illnesses when they have caused damage beyond repair. By then, it is too late for a cure. Many important diseases like hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Results of the Population Health Survey 2003/04 of the Department of Health showed that 72.9%, 42.5% and 71.8% of the male surveyed did not have their blood cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar checked in the preceding 5 years. Also, 60% of the male with high blood pressure did not know they had the disease. That is why regular health checks are important.

What to ask your doctor?

During regular health checks, it is also a good time to discuss the following topics with your doctor:

• Diet and exercise, especially abdominal obesity.
• If you are a smoker, ask your doctor for quitting tips and whether you need nicotine replacement prescriptions.
• Your doctor can also help you with alcohol and drug problems.
• Your mental health, for example, stress and depression.
• Other areas such as family relationships, parenting, occupational health and sexual health.