By Nelly Obadha
With the increase in lifestyle and other diseases that can hardly be detected until it is too late, women must do routine tests to ensure they stem the devastating effects of such diseases. Here are examples of these important tests.
Mammogram and breast examination
October is breast cancer month in the world’s calendar and many women worldwide strive to undertake mammogram tests. This test is done to check the presence of breast cancer cells. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the easier it is to cure. This test is not limited to women, as men also suffer breast cancer.
Self-breast examination is also a way of finding out if you have any abnormal lumps, discharge from the nipple or change in your breast size. In case you detect any odd lumps, you should contact your doctor for further examination.
Papanicolaou test
Papanicolaou test or a pap smear, as is commonly known, is a physical test done to detect the presence of cancerous cells in the cervix. Cervical cancer is caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Young women above the age of 21 must go through this test once a year. A simple pap smear test is done by a gynaecologist who collects a sample of cells from your cervix and uses it to do a cancer test. A pap smear is especially recommended for sexually active woman, as they are prone to developing cancerous cells in their cervix.
Blood sugar test
A blood sugar test is done to find out if an individual has diabetes. Many pregnant women have to undergo a sugar test called gestational diabetes to help protect the baby from any harm.
Skin test
The human skin is usually exposed to many harsh elements. Women are especially vulnerable because of the many chemicals in the oils and creams they use daily. A skin test helps in early treatment of chronic acne, infections and even skin cancer.
Bone density test
Every woman should undergo a bone density test to detect the presence of osteoporosis. This is a disease that causes thinning of bones, which may lead to weak bones prone to fractures and breaking. The older you grow, the harder it is for the body to absorb calcium, the major nutrient required for bone formation. Sufficient calcium is especially important during pregnancy.
These tests are important not only in determining one’s health status, but they also aid in early detection and treatment of potentially life-threatening diseases.
