Being a woman is not a piece of cake. You have to be a multi-tasker – whether you are a mother, a working woman or both. You have to juggle between things even when your plate is full. While you want the best for your family and your profession, you compromise on what’s best for you. Consequently, your health suffers.
Your health should be your priority. It’s not only your stressful lifestyle but genetics, medical history and some unforeseen circumstances that affect your health. We hate to break it to you, but as per research, women are more susceptible to certain diseases and have a more severe course of illness as compared to men for multiple reasons, including biological differences, genetics, social inequities, and restrictive cultural stigmas and norms.
So, we hope you understand there’s no way you can compromise your health. Sure, you can follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly. But just so you know, you are missing something. We are talking about health screening tests.
No matter how old you are, how fit and fine you are, or what lifestyle you need, these health screening tests are essential for women, they should be prioritised no matter what.
Breast cancer screening test
Breast cancer is a serious disease, for which there is no proper cure available. However, timely diagnosis (at the initial stages) can make treatments more effective and increase the chances of recovery.
As breast cancer is rising among younger women and accounts for 13.5% of all cancer cases and around 10.6% of all deaths, breast cancer screening tests become increasingly crucial for women of all ages, but especially young women.
A breast cancer screening test would include clinical exams and screening mammograms
The screening is highly crucial if you have a family history of breast cancer. Your healthcare provider will check if you are prone to more severe types of breast cancer associated with certain genes, including BRCA1 or BRCA 2.
Cervical cancer screening test
Cervical cancer begins in the cells of the cervix. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the woman’s uterus (womb). Long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer. As per stats, it contributes to roughly 6–29% of all cancers in women. A screening test for the same is highly recommended for all women over the age of 21, once every 3 years.
Screening for cervical cancer includes human papillomavirus (HPV) and Pap testing.
A doctor can take a Pap smear to study and examine the cells of your cervix to determine the risk of cervical cancer. In case, you have suffered from sexually transmitted diseases, you would need screening tests more frequently.
Thyroid function Test
Even though thyroid disease can affect anyone, men, women or children, it is most prominent in women than men. Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid, which can lead to health issues such as heart problems and high cholesterol.
Other than that, low levels of these hormones can slow down your metabolism and cause weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, and irregular periods. On the contrary, high levels of thyroid can cause anxiety, increased heartbeat, weight loss, sleeping struggles, etc. A thyroid test is highly recommended for women.
Blood pressure and diabetes
Heart issues such as cardiac arrest and heart attacks have become a leading cause of death, both in men and women. In order to have a healthy heart and reduce the possibility of these heart diseases, regular monitoring of blood pressure and sugar is necessary. This is especially essential for women as many hormonal and lifestyle factors in women such as menopause, pregnancy complications, and stress, can alter blood pressure and in turn, increase the risk of heart diseases
Lipid profile tests
A lipid profile test is essential as it checks your triglyceride and cholesterol levels. As high cholesterol doesn’t have apparent symptoms, the test becomes increasingly essential. Experts suggest that cholesterol levels should be checked every year after the age of 20.
Heart health tests
Heart attacks and cardiac arrests cannot be predicted, but they certainly give warning signs. A lot goes wrong inside your body before heart attacks strike. This is where these heart health tests come in to steer clear of the unforeseen. These heart health tests include ECG, echocardiogram, TMT and CCTA.
Closing thoughts
prioritizing essential health screening tests is crucial for every woman’s well-being and longevity. Regular screenings provide early detection and intervention for various conditions, allowing for better management and improved health outcomes. By taking proactive steps to monitor their health and address any potential issues, women can empower themselves with knowledge and make informed decisions about their lifestyles and healthcare. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and investing in regular health screenings is a valuable investment in one’s overall well-being. Let us prioritize our health, embrace self-care, and encourage one another to take charge of our own health journeys.
