Regular health exams and tests can help find problems before they start. They also can help find problems early, when your chances for treatment are better. As a woman, you need some special exams and screenings. Below mentioned are list of test you should undergo for sure .
Blood Pressure.
Elevated blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. All adult women should know their blood pressure. At older ages, and for those with conditions like obesity that put them at increased risk for hypertension, annual screening is recommended.
Blood Glucose Test
Women who are overweight or obese, are of ethnicity that is at higher risk, or have a family history of diabetes or history of gestational diabetes, need to have their blood glucose checked periodically and get medical advice.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Your body mass index (BMI) is a measure for obesity. While there are no hard and fast guidelines for how often should take this measurement, it’s an important number. Your BMI indicates whether or not you are overweight or obese, a condition that raises your risk of serious health problems like diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.
Bone Density Screening
Women should start getting screened for osteoporosis at age 65 but those with risk factors for osteoporosis, such as fractures or low body weight, should be screened earlier.
Breast Cancer Early Detection
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer cases and deaths in women. Early detection of cancer can save lives. Common symptoms include lumps, asymmetry, and skin or nipple retraction, changes or bloody discharge. If available in your country, participating in a breast cancer screening programme can be beneficial. Screening is done by mammography. The starting age can vary and is generally 50 years and repeated every two years. If you have a family history of the disease, or other concerns, talk to your doctor about starting screening earlier.
Colon Cancer Early Detection
Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer among women. Early detection of cancer can save lives. It is important to be aware of common symptoms such as change in bowel habits, blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss. If available in your country, participating in colorectal cancer screening is recommended. Screening generally begins at the age of 50 years and can be done through stool-based tests (to test for blood in the stool) or endoscopy (to examine the intestines using a lighted tube and camera). If you have a family history of the disease, or other concerns, talk to your doctor about starting screening earlier.
Lipid Profile Check
This is a tool used to assess your risk of developing heart disease or stroke. If you are at risk for heart disease or stroke, discuss with your doctor regarding the frequency of this blood test. For adults aged 40 years or older, and for those with conditions like obesity or diabetes it is preferable to have the lipid profile which includes total cholesterol and other lipids.
Cervical Cancer Screening (PAP Smear & HPV Testing)
During a Pap smear, your doctor uses a speculum to widen the vaginal canal, takes cells from the cervix with a small brush, and examines those cells under a microscope for changes that may lead to cervical cancer. Screening should start at 30 years of age, if the test is negative you can have the test every three to five years. Alternatively, an HPV test can be used to detect Humanpapillomavirus, one of the most common sexually transmitted infections that can lead to pre-cancer and cancer when persistent. The sample will be also taken from the cervix or from the vagina if you use self-sampling. Screening should also start at 30 years of age (earlier for women with HIV) and you can re-do the test after a minimum of five years if the test is negative.
Dental Check up
Poor dental health doesn’t just affect your teeth. Tooth and gum infections can negatively impact your well-being so it’s important to look after your teeth. Brush regularly, avoid smoking and sugary foods and make a trip to the dentist every 6 months to keep your mouth healthy. Through regular dental checkups, which involve cleaning and examining the teeth, along with X-rays, your dentist can spot early signs of decay and any other problems.
Skin Examination
Women can monitor their skin, carefully inspecting the skin all over your body, looking for any new moles or changes to existing moles which can be early signs of skin cancer. Sunburn can cause melanoma and other skin cancers so protecting against sun burn is important for all ages. If you notice any changes to moles see your doctor as soon as possible.