Gift Health, Not Just Gadgets : 5 Medical Checkups Every Dad Needs This Father’s Day

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Anita hadn't told anyone she was flying back. After all, what's a surprise if it isn't complete? The scent of coffee and old books filled the living room of her childhood home in Chennai. Her father had just settled into his worn-out recliner, the cricket commentary humming softly in the background. The doorbell rang.

"Who is it now?" he grumbled as he got up, half-expecting the newspaper boy who always asked for advance payment. He opened the door and froze. There she was. Anita. His Anita. His daughter, his pride, his entire world. "Tadaaa! Happy Father's Day, Appa!" His mouth opened in disbelief, then stretched into the widest smile Anita had seen in years. "Anita! What in the world...? You... you didn't say anything!"

"If I did, it wouldn't be a surprise, right?" He pulled her into a warm, lingering hug. The kind of hug that says everything without a word. They spent the afternoon catching up over coffee and her homemade chocolate cake she carried all the way from New York. And then she said something really funny, making him laugh so hard that he clutched his stomach. But suddenly... his face changed. "Appa? Are you okay?" He looked pale, dazed. Then, without a word, he slumped forward. "Appa!" she screamed.

The hospital smelled of antiseptic and urgency. Anita paced outside the emergency ward, trying to calm her racing heart. Her hands trembled as she clutched her phone, but she couldn't think of anyone to call. He was her only family. She closed her eyes and whispered, "Please let him be okay. Please."

The doctor finally emerged, looking calm but serious. "Doctor? Is he okay?" she asked. "He's stable now. It was a close call, though. His sugar levels were dangerously high. He should have had regular check-ups. Has he been managing his diabetes?" he replied.

Anita's eyes widened. "He never told me he had diabetes." The doctor sighed gently. "That's common. Many parents downplay their health issues to not worry their children. But ignoring it doesn't help. It only builds up."

Later that evening, Anita sat beside her father's hospital bed. He was awake now, sipping warm water, a little embarrassed. "I'm sorry. Didn't mean to scare you." Anita tried to smile but her eyes betrayed her. "You scared the life out of me, Appa." He looked away, avoiding her eyes. "Didn't want to worry you. You're doing so well there... flying across countries, working so hard..."

"I'm flying across countries and then I come back to you, Appa. What's the point of anything if I lose you?" He looked at her, his eyes glistening. "I just didn't think it was serious. I've been feeling tired, but... I thought it was just age."

"Appa, you know we get our cars serviced more regularly than our own bodies. Why didn't you go for a health check-up?" "I thought I was managing. I didn't want to be a burden." he replied.

Anita reached for his hand. "You raised me alone. You cooked, cleaned, showed up for every school event. You've never been a burden. You've been my strength. And now it's my turn."

Her father smiled, his eyes glistening with tears.

Photo Credit: Freepik

Why Health Is the Best Gift You Can Give A Father

Photo Credit: www.asterhospitals.in

Anita's experience is not uncommon. In fact, many families discover serious health issues only after a scare. But it doesn't have to be this way. According to Dr. Basavaraj S Kumbar, Consultant in Internal Medicine, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, "Father's Day isn't just about cake and cards-it's also a reminder to show up for the people who've always shown up for us. And what better way to honour your dad than by assisting him in investing in his health?"

"Once a man crosses 40, his body starts making small changes that are often silent. The greatest gift? Early detection. A few regular check-ups can catch issues early-before they become serious." He points out.

Photo Credit: Freepik

Here are five simple but essential tests every man over 40 should consider:

• Blood Pressure Check
• Fasting and Post-Meal Blood Sugar Tests
• Lipid Profile (Cholesterol Test)
• Liver Function Test
• ECG or Stress Test (depending on lifestyle and family history)

Dr. Ankita Patel, European Board & NMC Certified Oncologist also emphasises the importance of these tests and a lot more in her instagram reel.

These tests don't take long, and most can be bundled into a routine health check-up. It's like basic maintenance except for your body.

If your father already has diabetes or has experienced low sugar episodes, it's important to be even more careful. The signs-dizziness, sweating, or sudden irritability are subtle but critical. Keeping glucose tablets, a small chocolate, or a juice box nearby can help manage sudden drops in sugar.

"Always act fast," says Dr. Kumbar. "Have 15 grams of fast-acting carbs and check again in 15 minutes if possible."

Photo Credit: Freepik

And for fathers who live alone, a simple support system like a neighbour, friend, or regular call from family can make a big difference. Wearing a medical ID bracelet is also a smart step, in case help is needed.

"Staying healthy past 40 doesn't mean a lifestyle overhaul," Dr. Kumbar explains. "It just takes awareness, consistency, a few tests, a bit of preparation, and you'll be well on your way to a stronger, healthier tomorrow."

Disclaimer : Anita's story is a fictional account, created to invite reflection on health and the care we owe to those who raised us.