5 Health Screenings For Women Over 35, As Per Expert

There is a well-known saying: “Health is wealth.” No matter how many material possessions you have, they mean little if you’re not in good health. Numerous surveys and studies have shown that women often prioritise the health of their family members but tend to neglect their own health. Whether you are a working woman, a housewife, or balancing both roles, it’s crucial to schedule routine checkups after the age of 35. This is because your body undergoes significant changes after this age. To prevent delayed diagnoses and to detect chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and osteoporosis, women over 35 must opt for some essential screenings and tests.

5 Screenings Every Woman Should Opt For After 35

We spoke with Dr Sushruta Mokadam, a consultant obstetrician at Motherhood Hospital in Kharadi, Pune, who shared valuable insights about the five screenings every woman over 35 should consider. Here’s the list:

1. Pap Smear And HPV Test

The Pap Smear and HPV tests help check for cervical cancer. As explained by Dr Sushruta, these tests “detect abnormal growth of cancerous cells and also HPV infections”. Women should get these two tests done every 3 to 5 years to ensure prevention and early diagnosis.

2. Breast Cancer Screening

As per a study done by PubMed, the breast cancer projection in Indian women for 2025 is going to see “a substantial increase, reaching 5.6 million DALYs”. Dr Mokadam mentions, “Going for routine breast cancer screenings is essential as the risk of breast cancer increases with age.” This screening can help detect lumps or abnormalities in the breasts, ensuring early detection and treatment before it gets too late.

3. Diabetes Screening

Women after 35 should get a diabetes screening done annually, especially if they have a history of the disease in their family. Dr Mokadam emphasises, “Uncontrolled blood sugar can be an invitation to various health issues that can become life-threatening or even fatal.” If you’re unable to go to the hospital, you can always check your blood sugar levels at home with a glucometer.

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4. Bone Density test

According to a study done by the National Institutes of Health, “Women are statistically at a higher risk for osteoporosis and related fractures than men.” The data confirms the importance of a bone density test for women after 35. Dr Sushruta also mentions, “Women tend to lose bone mass as they age. This can increase the risk of osteoporosis. A bone density test can be helpful in assessing your bone strength and preventing the risk of fractures with timely intervention.”

5. Lipid Profile And Heart Health Monitoring

Sedentary lifestyles and unbalanced dietary habits can put women after 35 at severe risk of cardiovascular diseases. Dr Mokadam says, “Women should undergo annual screenings that include assessments of cholesterol levels, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and ECGs to evaluate their heart health. “

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Take your health seriously and make sure you get these five health screenings done at regular intervals.

Image Credits: Freepik

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