was wird beim check up ab 50 gemacht — what does this mean exactly?

The 'Check-up ab 50' in Germany is not an official standalone term but usually refers to the extended health screening ('Check-up 35') covered by statutory health insurance every three years from age 35. From age 50, additional preventive screenings are added: colorectal cancer screening (annual fecal test or two colonoscopies ten years apart), skin cancer screening (every two years), and for men, prostate cancer screening (annually from age 45). The general check-up includes medical history, physical exam (blood pressure, BMI), blood tests (lipids, glucose, kidney/liver function, complete blood count), and urinalysis. Vaccination status and risk factors are reviewed. Importantly, this check-up is not a full-body diagnostic; it is a screening tool. Evidence for its benefit is moderate – blood tests in asymptomatic individuals have limited predictive value. Colorectal cancer screening, however, is well-supported. DNA tests are not part of the standard check-up. Anyone interested in personalized risk assessment should consult their GP and consider genetic counseling.