Important Health Screening Tests Every Woman Should Have

Every woman should set aside time for healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, stress management, and eating the right meals. One of those behaviors is scheduling routine screenings for health problems, which can detect and address problems early.

Screening on a regular basis may even save your life. By recognizing a problem early, you can avert complications and improve your quality of life. Many patients who dutifully attend their tests, have the chance to change the trajectory of their lives.

Health Screening Tests Every Woman Should Have

Here are some key tests every woman should consider to maintain optimal health and well-being.

Blood Pressure:

If your blood pressure is less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), the desired value, you should get it checked at least every two years beginning at the age of 20. Adults aged 40 and up, as well as those with conditions such as obesity that place them at a higher risk of hypertension, should undergo annual screening.

Also, read: Managing High Blood Pressure

Cholesterol:

Total cholesterol levels should ideally be fewer than 200 mg/dl; a borderline high measurement is between 200 and 239 mg/dl. If you are at risk for heart disease or stroke, work with your doctor to determine how frequently you should get this blood test.

Also, read: Signs and Symptoms of High Cholesterol

Mammograms:

There has always been debate regarding when and how frequently a woman should have them. However, it is typically suggested that women begin yearly screenings at the age of 45 and transition to a biennial mammography at the age of 55. Consult your medical professional about starting annual screening earlier if you have a family history of the disease or other concerns.

Diabetes:

Women should have a blood glucose test every three years beginning around the age of 45 to monitor for diabetes or prediabetes. A fasting plasma glucose test reading of 100 mg/dl or higher suggests that you may be prediabetic, but a reading greater than 126 mg/dl implies diabetes. If you are obese, have a family history of diabetes, you should start sooner and get examined more frequently.

Book: Diabetes Suraksha Package

Cervical Cancer:

A Pap smear should be performed every three years beginning at the age of 21 and continuing until the age of 65. If you’re 30 or older, you can have the test every five years if you combine it with an HPV screening, which is a sexually transmitted disease that can lead to cervical cancer.

Disclaimer

This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Your doctor should be consulted for any medical advice. Dr. B Lal Lab accepts no responsibility for the contents of this information, despite the fact that every precaution was taken in its development.