The Women’s Health Checklist: 5 Critical Screenings Every Woman Needs at 40
“Forty and fabulous” is a favorite catchphrase for women entering this decade. This milestone is all about self-awareness, self-empowerment, wisdom, confidence, and prioritization of well-being. Celebrate your 40s by taking charge of your health and wellness.
Here’s a checklist of the five vital screenings that every woman needs at 40. Think of this as a personalized roadmap leading you to a healthier, happier, and stronger you.
1. Diabetes Screening
The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases as you age, particularly 45 and above. Type 2 diabetes either makes your body resistant to insulin or fails to produce adequate amounts.
A fasting blood sugar test can check for signs of prediabetes or diabetes. If you have a high fasting blood sugar level, the test can be repeated to make sure it is accurate. A result of 100 to 125 mg/dL can indicate prediabetes while 126 mg/dL or above can be a sign of diabetes.
Your doctor can also request a glucose tolerance test to see how your body reacts to sugar. A sample of blood is drawn to measure your fasting blood sugar level. Then you will be asked to drink a sugary beverage, followed by a two-hour waiting period. Another blood sample is drawn to check your blood sugar level. According to the Mayo Clinic, if your blood sugar level is 200 mg/dL or higher after two hours, your doctor will likely diagnose you with diabetes.
2. Mammogram
According to a study, breast cancer is the leading type of cancer among women in the Philippines and one of the highest mortality rates in Asia. The majority of breast cancer patients in the country are diagnosed at advanced stages.
Early diagnosis and treatment increases the survival rates for breast cancer. To help with early detection, Cleveland Clinic recommends that women get a mammogram (an x-ray picture of their breasts) every year starting at age 40. The screening can help detect abnormal areas and changes in their breast tissues that could lead to breast cancer before symptoms develop.
3. Pap Smear
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Filipino women between 15 and 44. A routine visit to your OB-GYN and getting an annual pap smear every three years and an HPV test (co-test) every five years detect any abnormal cells and precancerous cells that can lead to cervical cancer. Pap Smear is also used to check for other vaginal issues, such as inflammation.
4. Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is another important diagnostic screening that empowers women to take control of their colorectal health. This procedure examines the colon and rectum’s interior, making it crucial for the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. This form of cancer commonly begins from a tumor and slowly develops over many years.
According to the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the Philippines. This cancer predominantly affects adults 50 years old and above, accounting for 75% of cases, while only about three percent are children 14 years old and below. It is estimated that one out of 1800 Filipinos each year will develop colorectal cancer. The DOH highly recommends undergoing colonoscopy after turning 45, as the risk of colorectal cancer increases with age.
5. Bone Density Test
Women usually have smaller, thinner bones compared to men, making them more likely to develop osteoporosis. This disorder is characterized by a reduction of bone mass, making the bones fragile and prone to breakage.
The Department of Science and Technology Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) calls osteoporosis a “silent epidemic” because the condition does not show symptoms at its early stages until a fracture occurs.
Undergoing a bone density test can detect a reduction in bone density and assess your risk of fractures. The test also confirms if you have osteoporosis and tracks the progress of osteoporosis treatment. It uses X-rays to measure calcium and other bone minerals, typically in the hip, bone, and forearm.
Purpose of Screenings
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider and getting these critical screenings are essential, even if you’re healthy, for the following reasons:
- Early detection of medical issues
- Risk assessment of potential medical conditions
- Proactive approach to a healthy lifestyle
- Ensure you receive up-to-date vaccinations and recommended preventive care services
- Build a trusting relationship with your healthcare provider
Conclusion
Turning 40 is a significant point in a woman’s life. Prioritizing preventive care at this stage by undergoing these five critical screenings can significantly impact long-term health and well-being.
Talk to a healthcare professional if you have a higher risk of certain cancers and other health issues to review your health history and your family’s health history. The healthcare professional can discuss appropriate screening options for early detection and prevention.