Even though you may feel healthy, you might not be. This is the opinion of Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics, who encourages women to schedule overdue screenings to keep their health a priority.
The aim is to detect disease at an early stage before symptoms become noticeable. In most cases, treating a disease early on provides a better prognosis. Regular health checks can also help to reduce risk factors and/or treat abnormalities that could lead to more serious disease later on,” stated Jennings.
These are the 10 essential health checks women should prioritise:
- Blood pressure screening
Jennings said it was a myth that high blood pressure mainly affected men or the aged, with research conducted in South Africa showing that high blood pressure rates among women have climbed in the last two decades. A study sample comprising of 5 477 men and 7 740 women pointed to an increase in hypertension prevalence from 27% to 45% in men, and 31% to 48% in women.
Almost all diseases, disabilities and deaths caused by high blood pressure are preventable. So, roll up your sleeve and get your blood pressure checked. This can be done at most pharmacy clinics or at your GP.”
- Cholesterol check
This check assesses one’s risk of developing heart disease or a stroke, which should have been done at least every five years from the age of 20. However, for those with a family history of cardiovascular disease, their check should be done more regularly.
Normal cholesterol levels should be less than 5 mmol/l. If it’s higher, make a plan to see your doctor.”
- Blood glucose
Women aged 45 and older should check their blood glucose every three years to detect the risk for diabetes. Jennings added that a fasting plasma glucose reading of 6.1 – 6.9mmol/l and higher may indicate prediabetes, while anything over 7mmol/l indicates diabetes.
- HIV
Given the high rate of HIV/AIDS in the country, Jennings recommends women be tested once annually. The test involves a simple prick test or a swab of the cheek at a GP or clinic.
- Pap smear
A pap smear is recommended every three years, starting from the age of 25 to 65. Your doctor will take cells from your cervix with a small brush, which then gets sent to a lab for analysis. There they will look for changes or abnormalities that may lead to cervical cancer.”
- Mammograms
As women age, said Jennings, the risk of breast cancer increases. A mammogram involves compressing the breast between plates so that X-ray images can be taken. She advises women to start annual screenings from the age of 40, then taking screenings twice a year from age 55 onwards. Those with a family history of breast cancer should begin screenings even earlier
It’s also advised to do monthly self-examinations at home, where you can check for lumps, bumps or any changes.”
- Bone density
Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones, and a bone density test is recommended for women aged 65 and men over 70. For those with risk factors however, such as fractures or low body weight, they should be screened earlier.
The frequency of the test varies depending on bone density, but your doctor will be able to advise you on how often you should have it done. The test requires you to lie flat on a table with legs positioned over a padded box, while a low-dose X-ray machine captures images of the bones.”
- Colon screening
Jennings said the colon should be scanned for cancer from 50 years old and every 10 years after that depending on risk factors. Colon screenings can be done at a doctor’s office or a hospital by way of a sigmoidoscopy, where a lighted tube and camera are inserted in the anus to examine the lower colon. A colonoscopy involves a longer tube that examines the entire colon.
- Skin checks
Approximately 20 000 skin cancer cases are reportedly in South Africa each year, said Jennings, making this the most common cancer in the country. She advised monthly self-examinations at home to check for any new moles or changes to existing moles. If anything is out of the ordinary, it should be checked by a GP or dermatologist.
- Dental checks
Regular dentist visits, at least once a year, can prevent plaque build-up, cavities and gum disease.
Don’t put off making a doctor’s appointment for yourself because you’re too busy taking care of everyone else… Taking care of yourself should be at the top of your list, not last. If you’re not taking care of your own health, how are you supposed to take care of others? Putting your health first isn’t selfish, it’s essential!” she concluded.
Information adapted from a release by Meropa Communications on behalf of Pharma Dynamics.
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