Ladies, You Are On The Way To A Healthy And Happy Life If You Do These 5 Health Screening Tests

Last updated on April 14, 2022

At every stage of life, women face numerous health problems like complications during pregnancy, menopause, birth control, and menstrual cycle. Women are also at a higher risk of mental conditions like anxiety and depression. It is essential to keep your overall health in good shape for a healthy and happy life.

You might exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and indulge in stress-free activities to recharge yourself. Well, that’s great. But are you going for a routine health screening that every woman should?

Health screening tests are essential for women. They can assist in the early detection of severe ailments like heart diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Screening tests help identify illness even before you may experience symptoms. As you may already know, there are several screening tests available for women.

How Would You Know Which Health Test You Should Be Taking?

Screening tests depend on factors like age, family history, your health report, and other risk factors. There are specific tests that every woman has to take during their lifetime, while some cater to only a particular group of people depending on the risk factors.

Health Screening Tests Every Woman Needs

Mammogram: This test can detect breast cancer. It involves capturing x-ray images by pressing the breast using plates. Lumps may be detected using low x-ray doses even before you may feel them. You might be wondering when and how often a woman should do a mammogram, considering that the risk of breast cancer increases as you age. ¹According to the American Cancer Society, all women at the age of 40 and above should get this test done every year.
Pap Test/ HPV Test: A pap/HPV test is the most effective way to detect cervical cancer. Studied during this test are cells from the cervix to detect any abnormalities. Cervix is a narrow passage between the vagina and the uterus. Doctors can remove any abnormal cells on the cervix before they lead to cancer by conducting this test. The primary cause of cervical cancer is a type of STD known as human papillomavirus. During this test, your primary care physician takes a sample by scraping cells in the cervix. Between the age of 20 and 30, women should have a Pap test done.
Cholesterol screening: Another essential test that women should consider doing is cholesterol screening. Also known as a lipid test, this is nothing but a complete blood examination. It helps determine if you fall in the category of high cholesterol. High cholesterol levels are the leading cause of heart attacks. ²According to the American Heart Association, women should get a baseline test at the age of 10, then should repeat it every four to six years for those at a higher risk.
Bone density test: At the age of 65, women are prone to osteoporosis. Hence, for this reason, it is vital to get a bone density test. During this test, you are supposed to lie down on a table, and a low-dose x-ray machine captures images of your bone. Early screening is best for Women who are prone to fractures or low body weight. The regularity of this test depends on bone density and other risk factors.
Eye exam: Over the past few years, there has been an increase in the risk of developing Glaucoma in women. This condition occurs when there is a build-up of pressure inside your eye. Without proper, timely care, it can damage the optic nerves and leads to permanent blindness. In most cases, it has no symptoms. A regular eye checkup can help detect Glaucoma early. Women who are 40 years old must be checked for Glaucoma every two to four years. Between the ages of 40 and 54, an eye test must be conducted every one to three years. Women between the age of 65 and above must get their eyes checked every 6 to 12 months.

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