Dr. Nilima Mantri, Gynecologist, Apollo Spectra Mumbai
There are various health problems that can take a toll on a woman’s health. Timely screening, diagnosis, and treatment can save lives. Read on to know more about the tests that women need to opt for to stay healthy throughout life.
Women often tend to neglect their health as they are busy managing trying to balance their personal and professional life. There are a plethora of health problems that can affect women. The majority of women often encounter gynaecological problems such as endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, cysts, menstrual disorders, cervical cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), eye problems, lifestyle diseases, pregnancy complications, respiratory issues, skin diseases and many more. It will be imperative for women to go for regular screening as suggested by the doctor to maximize the risk of diseases and stay healthy. Regular screening aids prompt diagnosis and one will be able to seek appropriate treatment.
Here are some screening tests that women should opt for:
- Pap and human papilloma virus (HPV) test: Should be done for cervical cancer and the HPV virus.
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) test: It can help to look for STIs such as Chlamydia, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, syphilis, gonorrhoea.
- Mammogram: A woman has to do a mammogram starting at age 40, every year to look for cancer.
- Skin check test: Full body yearly skin exam should be done every year to check for changes in the skin.
- Bone density test: Low-bone mineral density can lead to problems like osteoporosis in later life. So, take a vitamin D 3 test as suggested by the doctor.
- Hearing test: Many women may encounter hearing issues as they age. So, try to take the test as advised by the doctor after 40.
- Eye exam: Eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma can haunt you. It is essential to go for regular eye check-ups.
- Blood pressure monitoring: High blood pressure is linked to heart disease, diabetes and can invite heart attack and stroke. Monitor your BP from time to time.
- Blood sugar level monitoring will help you to manage diabetes.
- Oral hygiene: Try to keep gum problems at bay by going for dental check-ups.
The last word: Regular screening is life-saving for women. It can help improve their quality of life by timely management of diseases. The screening will detect abnormalities before symptoms are seen. The types of screening one needs will depend on her age, family health history, and risk factors. Do not miss screening at any cost.
