Here is a list of some important screening tests every woman should undergo depending on her age, family history, own health history, keeping in account her other risk factors.
Breast Cancer Screening
- Clinical Breast Exam: Done by a practitioner, it should be repeated every 2-3 years for women in their 30s and every year for women 40 & above.
- Mammogram: This low dose radiographic (x-ray) test is done to detect & pick very small and early stage breast cancers. It should be done every 1-2 years starting at the age of 50. High risk cases may need to begin testing in their 40s.
- Cervical Cancer Screening
- Pap Smear Test: Cervical cancer is mainly caused by HPV, a sexually transmitted infection. Pap smear test detects abnormal cells in the cervix, which can be removed even before they turn cancerous. Women of 21-30 should do it in every 3 years. After 30, they can combine it with HPV test and do it every 5 years.
Colon Cancer Screening
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy needs to be repeated after every 5 to 10 years and a simple colonoscopy can be done every 10 years unless a problem is found. Colon cancer screening for women generally begins at the age of 50.
Bone Density Check
After menopause, women start to lose more bone mass. Their bones become week and prone to fracture.
- BMD: Bone Mineral Densitometry (DXA scan) is a special type of x-ray which measures bone strength and detect osteoporosis (spongy bones) before fractures begin to happen. This should be done once a year beginning at age 58 or earlier depending on risk factors for osteoporosis.
Type 2 Diabetes Screening
- Fasting Blood Sugar Test: A blood sugar test after 10-12 hours of fasting should be done at least once in 2 years after 30 years of age. High risk women (obese, sedentary and with family history of diabetes) should do it once a year post 40.
- HbA1C: Every 3 years for non-diabetic, healthy females with low risk of diabetes.
Screening for High Blood Pressure
Blood pressure should be checked every 2 years starting at age 25. Over the age of 40, it’s recommended to check blood pressure more often.
Cholesterol Check
Lipid Profile: Get complete lipid profile (LDL, HDL, Triglycerides, Total Cholesterol, VLDL) done at least once in 5 years. Begin early if you smoke or are obese, have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.
Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Screening
All sexually active women should get themselves and their partners tested for HIV and other STDs before starting sexual activity. Annually, they should also get a pelvic exam done by a medical practitioner.
