Essential Health Screenings for Women

Maintaining good health involves more than eating well and staying active—it requires regular health screenings to detect potential diseases early on. For women, these screenings are especially crucial, as they help identify issues specific to female anatomy and general health risks that increase with age. Let’s explore the key health screenings women should consider and why they’re essential.

Health screenings are medical tests and examinations to detect diseases or conditions before symptoms become apparent. They play a vital role in early detection, allowing for prompt treatment and potentially improving outcomes. These screenings range from basic checks like blood pressure and cholesterol tests to more specific screenings for cancer and other conditions.

Many health conditions develop without noticeable symptoms, earning names like “silent killers.” Diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol often show no signs until they cause significant damage. Similarly, cancers like colorectal, breast, and cervical can progress to advanced stages before any symptoms appear. By catching these issues early through health screenings, doctors can intervene before complications arise, increasing the chances of successful treatment and reducing the risk of irreversible damage.

Here are the essential screenings women should consider:

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with approximately 1 in 13 Singaporean women affected. Regular mammograms are crucial for early detection. Singapore’s national screening guidelines recommend the following:

• From age 50 and above, go for your mammogram screening once every two years unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• From age 40 to 49, go for your mammogram screening once every year. As breast tissues of younger women tend to be denser, abnormalities may not be visible on the mammogram. Therefore, consult your doctor about the benefits and limitations of going for a mammogram at this age. If you decide to go for a mammogram, it should be done once a year.
• For those below the age of 40, mammogram screening is not recommended.

Mammograms use x-rays to detect lumps or abnormalities in the breast, providing a reliable method for identifying potential breast cancer. Women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors might need to start screening earlier and more frequently.

2. Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer, the second most common cancer in Singaporean women, develops in the large intestine or rectum. Women aged 50 and above should start regular screenings, with the frequency depending on risk factors.

Average-risk individuals should have stool testing annually or colonoscopy every ten years.
High-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other predisposing factors, should begin screening earlier and more frequently. Screening methods include faecal immunochemical tests (FIT) and colonoscopy, with colonoscopy offering the most comprehensive and accurate examination.

Cervical cancer screening is essential for women between the ages of 25 and 69 who have ever had sexual activity. As part of the National Cervical Screening Programme, it is recommended that these women undergo regular screening with either a Pap smear test or an HPV test.

Pap smears should be done every three years, while the HPV DNA test, recommended for women aged 30 and above, should be conducted every five years. If a woman has had three consecutive normal Pap smears or a negative HPV test, the frequency of screening may be reduced.

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar are significant risk factors for heart disease and other health issues. Blood pressure should be checked annually or as regularly as possible, especially if readings exceed 130/80. Blood tests to detect high cholesterol and high blood sugar should be done every five years and every three years, respectively, unless abnormal readings or other risk factors require more frequent checks.

Women with additional risk factors, such as a family history of certain diseases, should consider comprehensive health screenings. These screenings may include thyroid hormone levels, sexually transmitted disease tests, and various radiological tests like ultrasounds for different parts of the body. This comprehensive approach helps identify a broader range of conditions and offers a more detailed health assessment.

Well-woman health screenings focus on gynaecological health, helping women better understand their reproductive health and detect abnormalities early. These screenings include physical examinations, pelvic ultrasound scans, Pap smears, and HPV DNA tests. They are vital for identifying common gynaecological conditions and are recommended annually for women of all ages, especially those over 50.

Health screenings are a critical component of preventive healthcare for women of all ages. By undergoing regular screenings, women can detect potential health issues early and take proactive steps toward treatment. From cancer screenings to blood pressure checks, these tests help ensure long-term health and well-being. Consult with your doctor to determine which screenings are best suited for your age, risk factors, and family history. Early detection could save your life.