I don’t know about you, but I only ever visit the GP when something is wrong. I’ll go for my smear when asked but, generally, I only ever get specific tests for specific problems, like a scan to see if my gallstone was still rolling around or a blood test to check my vitamin B12 levels after an at-home test claimed I had abnormally high amounts of the stuff swilling around my system (especially odd, given I’m a long-time vegan).

Even when my periods stopped for three years, I wasn’t offered an extensive checkup. GPs don’t have the time and resources to conduct in-depth, diagnostic tests – let alone speculative MOTs.

By the time you reach my age (33), however, you do start to wonder – and occasionally worry – about your body. If I want to have a baby at some point, I need to know that I’m in good shape. Both of my parents have chronic conditions – am I bound to develop them too? To continue improving in my running, should I be tweaking my diet or lifestyle? I really try to be as healthy as possible but am I getting it all right – and how much is within my control?

“I had a full-body health MOT – and finally got answers about some odd symptoms I’ve been experiencing”