Being a woman is not easy. She does not only carry the duty of being a daughter, mother and wife in the family. Women of today also play a significant role in society such as being the leader of the community and attained great success in various fields. While she is busy being the pillar of the family and community, it is crucial to take care of her health.
The following are seven suggested health checks that are recommended by healthcare professionals for women:
1. General Medical Checkup
This is an assessment of one’s overall health which includes an understanding of family medical history and lifestyle, basic laboratory tests, and blood tests. These tests can assess the risk of hypertension, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and others.
It is suggested that those in the age range of 19-21 do it once every two to three years; those in the age range of 22-64 do it once every one to three years. Meanwhile, those over 65 do it once a year.
2. Pelvic Ultrasound
The ultrasound provides quick visualization of a woman’s pelvic organs and structures. This includes the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The scan is non-invasive. It is done externally or internally.
3. Pap Smear
Also known as a Pap Test. This is a lifesaving screening tool for cervical cancer. Anyone with a cervix between the ages of 21 and 65 is recommended to do the test every three years. A small sample of cells from your cervix is collected with a speculum. It will then be analyzed in the lab to detect precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix.
4. HPV DNA Test
This test is to detect DNA of HPV (human papillomaviruses). HPV can cause abnormal tissue growth or cell changes in the cervix. Researches had determined that certain types of HPV are linked to cervical cancer. Therefore, it is recommended that those between 25-65 years old to perform the screening every five years.
5. Mammogram
It is an X-ray imaging method to examine one’s breast conditions. It is effective in detecting breast cancer and other breast-related diseases. The American Cancer Society recommended that women in the age range of 40 to 44 could opt to perform the screening yearly; women in the age range of 45 to 54 to perform the screening yearly; while those 55 years old and above could do it every other year or do it annually.
6. Colorectal Cancer Screening
This screening could detect early signs of colorectal cancer. Early detection is crucial to ensure successful treatment and survival. The National Cancer Society of Malaysia recommended that anyone who is 50 years old with an average risk to do the screening. A doctor will be able to advise one on the frequency of doing it.
7. Bone Density Test
To determine osteoporosis risk, the bone density is scanned with Low-intensity X-ray beams. It can measure the level of calcium and other minerals in one’s bones. Those who are 65 years old and above are advised to perform the test once every two years while women who are 65 years old and above with no risk of accelerated bone loss can do it every three to five years.
It is important to know that the health needs of a woman are different from man. The above-mentioned health checks are recommended for women to undertake. Doctors will be able to advise on the necessary checks accordingly. Hence, choosing the right healthcare package is crucial. Ewacare Malaysia women’s health screening package has comprehensive health checks for a woman based on her needs with expert guidance from experienced doctors for peace of mind.
Blame the discount.
Luckily it was a PR kit so I didn’t waste my money.