Being healthy is not only about treating ailments when they appear. Regular health check-ups are very valuable in identifying any problems. This helps discover them early, and most of the time before they get serious.
There is a variety of valuable screenings available to women in cities like Malaysia. They aid in long-term well-being in various life phases. Below, we will discuss some of the health checks that count, and when.
Breast cancer screening
This is a prevalent type among women in Malaysia. As such, regular screening is particularly important. If you are between 20-30 years, you should conduct monthly self-examinations. These will assist you in getting comfortable with your body and being aware of any changes that may occur. Clinical breast examination is generally advised every 3 to 4 months.
For those over 40 years, mammograms are usually recommended. They are very important, particularly when a family history of breast cancer is established.
Doctors might also prescribe breast ultrasounds in certain instances. This is necessary to give a better image. They come in handy for testing women who have dense breast tissue.
Cervical cancer screening
This is another test that all women should focus on.
- Pap smears identify abnormal cells of the cervix at an early stage.
- HPV tests determine the presence of high-risk strains of the virus that causes cervical cancer.
Doctors recommend pap smears every three years for sexually active women. It could be more depending on your doctor’s recommendation. These are fast, standard tests. They contribute significantly to prevention.
Ultrasound scans
Ultrasound scans are commonly applied to reproductive and pelvic health. They assist physicians in examining the:
- Uterus
- Ovaries
- Surrounding tissues.
They are usually utilized to identify issues like:
- Fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic pains.
Ultrasounds are non-invasive. They are painless as well. They can be performed regularly when necessary. Your doctor may request an ultrasound KL as regular follow-ups. It could also be due to some symptoms like irregular periods or lower abdominal pain.
Blood tests and metabolic screening
Routine blood work gives a good impression of your health. These usually tell more about:
- Blood sugar levels
- Cholesterol profiles
- Full blood counts.
They assist in risk detection of diseases like:
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Anaemia.
These conditions are prevalent but can manifest themselves without showing any apparent symptoms. That is why the tests are important.
Physicians can also prescribe thyroid functionality tests, particularly when you show symptoms like:
Bone density screening
The health of bones becomes more significant with increasing age, especially after menopause. Bone density tests determine the possibility of osteoporosis. This condition makes the bones weak, hence, predisposing them to fractures.
Your doctor may recommend this test as part of your health plan. It is especially important if:
- You have a family history of osteoporosis
- You are approaching menopause.
Summing up
Breast checks, Pap smear, ultrasound scans, and blood tests provide you with a better idea of your health. With these regular checks, you can prevent future problems and make wise choices regarding your well-being.
