4 Health Screenings of the Queens

Times are changing, and so are we as women! While we continue to play the jack of all trades, we're also learning to prioritize ourselves. Although everyone still turns to us to solve their problems, we're becoming more attentive to our needs. This shift is evident in our approach to health. According to an article by MASSH Minimal Access Smart Surgery Hospital, in 2023, approximately 48% of women reported prioritizing their health through regular checkups and preventive care. This marks a steady increase from 45% in 2022 and 40% in 2021, highlighting a growing trend of women taking charge of their well-being.

Let's talk about preventive health screenings and why they're so important for us women.

Did you know that in India, 30% of women have at least one chronic condition, and 9% have two or more? And that's just among those diagnosed! Given our country's size and healthcare disparities, the real numbers could be much higher.

So why should you prioritize preventive screenings? Here are the key reasons:

1. Early detection of potential health issues
2. Better management of existing conditions
3. Improved overall health and quality of life
4. Cost-effective in the long run
5. Peace of mind for you and your loved ones Regular checkups are an investment in your health. They help you maintain your well-being and catch problems early.

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer is a major concern for Indian women, but early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Regular mammograms are crucial for women 40 and older, while those with a family history should consult their doctor about earlier screenings. Monthly breast self-examinations are an important complement to mammograms, helping you stay aware of any changes. Sadly, only 0.9% of Indian women have had a professional breast exam, so if you're over 20, start self-exams now to protect your long-term health.

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer, mainly caused by HPV, can be prevented and treated if caught early. Regular screenings are crucial, with Pap smears recommended every three years starting at age 21 to detect abnormal cell changes. For women 30 and older, HPV tests every five years check for high-risk virus types that could lead to cancer. Both tests are quick and painless, involving a simple cell collection from your cervix – think of them as your health detectives, working to keep you safe and healthy!

Bone Density Screening

Osteoporosis is a silent threat to women's health, especially after menopause. Bone density screenings, particularly DEXA scans, are crucial for early detection and prevention of serious complications like fractures. Women 65 and older should have this painless, 10-30 minute test, which uses low-dose X-rays to assess bone strength in key areas like the hip and spine. If you have risk factors like a family history or long-term steroid use, don't wait – talk to your doctor about getting screened earlier to protect your bone health.

Blood Pressure Checks

High blood pressure often goes unnoticed due to the lack of symptoms. However, regularly monitoring blood pressure can improve quality of life. If you have no family history, get your blood pressure checks done once every 2 years. But if you have diabetes or a family history, get it checked more often. You can schedule an appointment with your doctor, or if you don't have any history, you can check it on your smart watches or other smart devices that can monitor blood pressure.

Thyroid Checks

Thyroid disorders affect 2.7% of Indian women, causing symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and depression. To protect your health, get a TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test every 5 years starting at age 35, or more frequently if you have symptoms or a family history. Regular screenings ensure early detection and management of thyroid issues, helping you maintain your overall well-being.

1. Diabetes:

• Fasting blood sugar: Every 3 years for women 45+
• HbA1c: Regularly to monitor blood sugar levels

2. Cholesterol:

• Lipid profile: Every 4-6 years for women 20+

3. General Health:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Regular intervals as advised

Taking charge of your health is a powerful act of self-care. As women, we're increasingly prioritizing our well-being through regular preventive screenings. From breast and cervical cancer checks to bone density scans and thyroid tests, each screening plays a crucial role in maintaining our health. Remember, early detection is key to effective treatment and management of many conditions. By staying proactive about our health, we're not just investing in ourselves, but also in our ability to care for those around us. Schedule your check-ups today – your future self will thank you for it.