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Because ageing is a part of life, the older we grow, the more we need to pay attention to our health.
It is even more essential for women, as women are predisposed to many health conditions due to the hormones, and bodily changes occurring during those ages (e.g. menopause).
To this end, aside from general health checkups, healthy diet, exercise, and managing stress, here is a list of five important health tests for women over 40.
1. Breast Ultrasound/Mammogram
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women globally. And the risk of a woman becoming a victim of this disease increases with age. Hence, every woman aged 40-49 should get an ultrasound and/or mammogram done annually, while women 50-74 should get one biannually.
Why?
It helps detect abnormalities, and cancerous cells speedily. Which then increases the chances of remission.
2. Thyroid Test
As the risk of thyroid in women is about ten times higher than in men, this test is an absolute necessity for women. Approximately 1 in 8 women will be affected by a thyroid condition at some point.
The prevalence of thyroid disorders in women is the hormonal fluctuations common with women, especially as they age. Thus, while thyroid diseases can occur in younger women, it is prevalent in women during, and after menopause (40+).
Accordingly, you should speak to your doctor about a thyroid test, whether physically healthy, or not.
3. Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear
Although a pelvic examination, and pap smear are advised for all women above 21 to detect Cervical cancer in time, it is a more vital health test for women over forty.
A pelvic examination, and pap smear are tools used to detect strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)- the root cause of cervical cancers.
Note: You should still screen for cervical cancer if you are younger than 21 but sexually active.
4. Ovarian Cancer Screening:
A woman’s risk of developing Ovarian cancer increases with age, and is most common among women post-menopause. Consequently, it is best to undergo screening once above forty, or younger (depending on the individual’s risk factor).
Screening comprises a blood test of the CA tumour marker, ultrasound, or a combination of the two.
5. Bone Mineral Density Test (BMD Test)
Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens the bones. It majorly occurs in women due to declining levels of the female sex hormone estrogen.
Because many women who have Osteoporosis are often unaware of it, a BMD test is among the crucial health tests for women above 40. It measures how much calcium, and other types of minerals are in an area of your bones. It also facilitates early treatment and a longer, healthier life.
How to carry out a health test with Afriglobal Medicare
To book a test with us, or a home collection, please send a Whatsapp message to 2348084295796. You may also walk into any of our health centres near you.
Alternatively, If you’d prefer to carry out the test as part of a comprehensive body checkup, click here. Next, select, and pay for our health check packages.