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Women may be more vulnerable to a variety of diseases and infections than men due to biological differences and gender inequalities. Globally, adolescent girls and young women are twice as likely to develop HIV infection as boys and young men, according to the World Health Organization. This higher risk of HIV is associated with unsafe and often unwanted and forced sexual activity. During pregnancy, malaria, HIV and TB can all pose significant risks to pregnant women, her fetus and newborn. International Women’s Health Day is observed every year on May 28 to spread awareness about women’s health. In 1987, during the International Women’s Health Meeting in Costa Rica, the Latin American and Caribbean Women’s Health Network (LACWHN) proposed to celebrate the day. (Also Read | International Women’s Health Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, Celebration)
Dr Garima Sahni, Senior Gynecologist and Co-Founder, Pristine Care says, “About 6.9 million cancer deaths among women in India could have been prevented. 20-40% of deaths are due to anaemia and it is estimated that 1 in 10 women will develop thyroid at least once before the age of 60. This shows how uncertain life is, especially after the pandemic.”
As women age, their bodies become more susceptible to certain diseases. Women in their 30s and 40s are advised to get regular checkups to get a baseline of their health and detect diseases early.
Important tests for women in their 30s and 40s
Dr. Sahni recommends the following tests for women in their 30s and 40s:
1. Pap smear and HPV test
This is a test to detect abnormal cell growth that causes cervical cancer. Regular screening is recommended between a 3-5 year time period depending on age and previous results. Human papillomavirus testing is also important for sexually active women as they may also be at risk for cervical cancer.
2. Mammograms and breast self-exams
This is a breast cancer screening test. It can detect breast tumors and abnormalities at an early stage when treatment is most effective. Depending on your situation, annual or biannual testing is recommended. Breast self-examination allows a woman to understand the normal look and feel of her breasts. Any changes in the breasts, if and when felt, should be reported to a healthcare professional for consultation.
3. Thyroid function test
TFT determines the levels of thyroid hormones in the body, which helps in detecting diseases like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
4. Blood pressure and cholesterol tests
The risk of heart diseases increases with age. Getting blood pressure and cholesterol checked every 4-6 years will help prevent heart diseases and brain stroke.
5. Blood glucose test
Annual blood sugar testing is recommended to detect conditions like diabetes and pre-diabetes. This testing becomes more important for people who are obese or who have a family history of diabetes or any other risk factor.
6. Bone density test
DEXA-scan is important for detecting diseases such as osteoporosis and bone loss, especially if people have risk factors.
7. Eye test
Eye check-up every 2 years to prevent eye diseases like cataract and glaucoma
8. Cancer screening
People at risk can also get screened for colon and skin cancer based on age, family history, and other risk factors.
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