Introduction:
As the life expectancy of females in India has increased from 23.96 years in 1901 to 66.90 years in 2011, that has led to an increase in health problems associated with aging and the rise of non-communicable diseases among women, which represents one of the major health challenges.
Women are more prone to non-communicable diseases (non-transmissible), certain types of cancer, and lifestyle diseases. To lessen this threat, regular women’s health checkups in different age groups are highly advised.
Women’s health is of the utmost importance. A healthy family, society, and country will all depend on healthy women. It is essential that women take the time to care for their own health. In fact, by prioritizing adequate women’s care, many illnesses that affect women can be avoided.
Therefore, women’s health checkups on a regular basis can detect disease when it’s most treatable and prevent them from developing serious health problems.
Which health screenings should I get done?
There are numerous health screening and examination types that can be useful at various ages. According to Dr. Biats, some are regular and some are based on family history. He advises women to have the following tests:
Cervical screening using Pap and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing
The best way to prevent women from developing cervical cancer is through routine screening. The most prevalent cause of cervical cancer is abnormal changes in the cells in your cervix caused by the HPV virus.
- Women should start getting Pap tests at age 21 and should repeat them at least every three years.
- Beginning at age 30, HPV testing should be combined with Pap tests, and you should repeat it at least every five years.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) tests
STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea, typically have no symptoms; you can transfer them to a partner or, if you are pregnant to an unborn child. According to Dr. Biats, sexual health exams should start as soon as you start having unprotected sex, become sexually active, learn that your partner has an STI, frequently switch partners, or find a new partner. Even if you are not sexually active, discussing STDs and pregnancy prevention with your doctor is vital. Testing can be carried out if necessary, and this can be done in a very discreet way.
Diabetes Screening
Diabetes screenings should start at age 35 and be repeated every three years if you don’t have any risk factors for the disease. If you have risk factors including pre-diabetes, family history, being overweight or obese, high blood pressure, or a history of heart disease, screening will be earlier or more frequently. Screening should be done additionally if you have a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or a history of gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
Breast Cancer
The current recommendation for women without a family history of breast cancer is to have their first mammogram at the age of 40, followed by annual screenings. Women with a strong family history of breast cancer may benefit from more frequent and early mammograms. If you’re between the ages of 50 and 74, have a mammogram every two years.
Skin Check
At age 18, begin checking your skin regularly for suspicious moles or new spots, as well as any changes in the color, size, form, or thickness of any moles or spots that already exist. This is especially important if you have fair skin or are frequently in the sun. Additionally, look for little lumps with red, whitish, or pearly coloring. At age 40, you should start getting yearly full-body skin checks with your dermatologist.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy helps identify and remove asymptomatic polyps that have the potential to become colon cancer. Colorectal screenings should start at age 45, though if you have a family history, you might need to be examined earlier.
Cholesterol Test
Women without risk factors should begin having their cholesterol checked at the age of 45, while those who do should begin having it checked at the age of 20. Regular heart health exams (every two years) are recommended for anyone aged 45 and up. Risk factors include diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and a few other medical disorders. Having your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure checked on a regular basis will help you avoid further issues.
Bone Density Test
When your bones are denser, they are less likely to break. Start getting checked at the age of 50 if you have a thin build or other serious risk indicators. Otherwise, the typical recommendation is to begin by the age of 65 and repeat at least every three years. Menopause raises the risk of osteoporosis, so talk to your doctor about it and how to keep your bones strong. Women over the age of 70 are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis, so they should get a bone density scan (DXA), which evaluates and examines the health and condition of their bones.
Hearing Test
Have a hearing exam because impaired hearing affects how well you think (cognitive function) and lowers your quality of life. Get your hearing tested every 10 years until age 50, then annually after age 60.
Eye Examination
It is advisable for adults to undergo a basic eye examination at the age of 18 and then every two years until they reach the age of 60, unless there is a diabetes-related case. Annual eye exams should be initiated. The recommended guidelines for adults include a baseline eye examination at the age of 18, followed by biennial examinations until the age of 60, unless there are underlying issues such as diabetes. Once you reach the age of 61, it is recommended to have an annual eye exam. If you have eye diseases or conditions that can lead to vision loss, such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or macular degeneration, an eye specialist will provide guidance on the appropriate frequency of check-ups.
Thyroid Test
Women are more likely to suffer from hypothyroidism (underactive) or hyperthyroidism (overactive) thyroid glands. The thyroid function test, which helps determine whether your thyroid hormone levels are normal, is therefore required.
Women’s dental examinations
Good oral health is very important for overall health and well-being. Hence, it is recommended to have a general dental check every six to 12 months.
References:
11 Health Screening Tests Every Woman Should Have
Journal of the Evolution of Medical and Dental Sciences, July 2014
Bansal AS, Cariappa MP, Gupta RK, Gupta R. Importance of periodic health check up for Indian women. Journal of Evolution of Medical and Dental Sciences. 2014 Jul 14;3(28):7853-61.
