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| Edited By: Dr Kavita Somani |Source: DNA |Updated: Mar 08, 2017, 07:55 AM IST
Unlike western countries where preventive health check-ups are a norm, India is yet to warm up to the idea of regular health screening tests. And when it comes to women, the prevalence of preventive health check-ups is almost absent in our country. However, as we observe International Women's Day, it is pertinent to remind women about the need to keep a check on their health parameters. Being proactive about your health can be life-saving at times. At other occasions, it can help you take pre-emptive measures to prevent a health issue from escalating. Preventive screening tests help by detecting any potential health problems while they are still treatable.
Throughout their reproductive age and beyond, women tend to experience a series of health concerns that often go undiagnosed for a long time. From irregular periods, hormonal imbalances to low bone density, all these concerns can be addressed if detected and treated in time. Often, conditions such as high blood sugar and high blood pressure may not show symptoms in the initial stage but may have serious repercussions if left untreated.
However, by undertaking regular preventive screenings, you can save yourself from a lifetime of health issues.
Here's a list of health screenings women must undertake regularly:
Thyroid dysfunction characterised by hyperthyroidism (over active thyroid gland) or hypothyroidism (under active thyroid gland) are quite common among women. Since its symptoms overlap with many other conditions, often they are initially mistaken as indicators of other health disorders. By identifying and treating the under or overactive thyroid gland, potentially serious health conditions such as arrhythmia can be prevented. Regular test must be done as per doctor's advice. Early thyroid checks and timely treatment can also avoid potential problems during pregnancy in later stages of life.
Women must start undergoing a pap test every 3-5 years once they turn 21. Further starting 30, a combined pap test and HPV test are recommended every 5 years. This screening helps in early identification of cervical cancer risk. The test detects inflammation or the presence of abnormal cells in the cervix area, thereby indicating potential risk of cervical cancer. Apart from detecting signs of cervical cancer early, a pap smear test also helps in early detection of sexually transmitted diseases. The screening, however, can be stopped after turning 65 years of age as women post this age are not at high risk of cervical cancer.
In recent years, diabetes has emerged as a major health concern in India. In turn the widespread prevalence of diabetes has put more people at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and renal disease, among others. A blood glucose test is recommended for all women regularly once they turn 45. However, for women who are overweight, or have a family risk of diabetes, this screening must start earlier, in consultation with a specialist.
Prevalence of blood pressure related disorders are quite common today. In fact, in recent years, doctors have witnessed a downward shift in the age of incidence of high blood pressure. Starting 30 years of age, you should get checked at least every two years to make sure your blood pressure is in the range of 120/80. If the reading is higher, you may have to get checked more often and should also be screened for diabetes.
Women of reproductive age may experience a series of disorders of the reproductive system including occurrence of cysts and fibroids in the ovaries. In fact, poly cystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is quite common among young women today, and is considered as one of the most under diagnosed condition in women. The condition can cause irregular periods, breakouts on the skin, weight disorders and may also lead to infertility if left untreated. A visit to the gynecologist is recommended every year after the age of 21 to conduct a pelvic examination and further tests if needed. A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is another test that helps determine your fertility by examining the uterus and fallopian tubes. It is recommended for women who are experiencing difficulty in conceiving.
Most of us tend to take our vision for granted. However, a number of eye-related disorders like glaucoma can strike silently and threaten our vision. An eye examination is recommended for everyone at repeated intervals in consultation with your doctor. If you have vision related issues, a comprehensive eye examination is recommended every two years. In case you have diabetes, an eye exam must be undertaken every year. Even if you have no vision related issues, comprehensive eye examinations are recommended atleast once in your 20s, and atleast twice in your 30s, followed by a baseline disease screening at 40.
Dental health is another oft-neglected subject in India, especially among women. However, a dental examination and cleaning is recommend every year to remove plaque and bacteria that might endanger your oral health. Even if you're in the pink of health, you should visit your doctor your regular check-ups as they help in avoiding problems in the future.
(Authored by Dr Kavita Somani, Director, Medics Super Specialty Hospital, Lucknow)
