Women- Beware of your health- opt for well women check

According to recent statistics only 40% of Indian women opt for preventive health check. Majority resort to self medication and ignore the signs and symptoms of a major illness. Ignorance and neglect leads to complications and fatality. It is important that every woman understands the importance of her health and prevention. Given below are some aspects that every women needs to consider and implement:

• Physical examination every 2 to 3 years.
• Breast check- to identify early signs of breast cancer. Mammography- every 1 to 2 years after the age of 40 years.
• Screening for thyroid should be done at regular intervals.
• Screening for diabetes- every 3 years after the age of 45years.
• Screening for cholesterol and blood pressure – every 5 years after the age of 35 years to reduce the risk of heart diseases.
• Women should undergo screening for osteoporosis. Bone mineral density test helps to identify problems early and treatment should be started to prevent fractures.
• Eye examination is essential after every 1 year to prevent eye related problems.
• PAP Smear test – Women at the age of 21 to 30 should undergo a pap smear test every 3 years. This is an essential test for checking cervical cancer. After the age of 30 years. PAP smear+ HPV test should be done every 5 years.
• Screening for ovarian cancer- a vaginal ultrasound is recommended to patients with a family history of cancer in ovary or any pelvic pain should undergo this test.

Consult for any abnormality:

Most importantly if you detect any abnormality in your body it is essential that you consult a doctor immediately. Ignoring or neglecting the signs and symptoms can complicate matters.