Hey there, amazing women! Let’s chat about something super important today—your health. We all know life gets busy, but making time for health screenings is one of the best ways to ensure you're living your best life. Regular screenings help catch potential issues early so you can address them before they turn into something more serious. So, let’s dive into the must-have health screenings for every woman. And, by the way, did you know Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness offers screening mammograms? Just one more reason to make us your health partner!
Mammograms: The Breast Best Friend
Let’s start with the big one: mammograms. If you’re 40 or older, it’s time to make this an annual date on your calendar. Mammograms are the frontline defense against breast cancer, catching issues early when they’re most treatable. Early detection can literally save lives, and that's why it’s so important to keep up with your mammogram appointments.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide, but the good news is that early detection through mammograms significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin screening mammograms at age 40 and continue annual screenings through age 54. Women 55 and older can switch to mammograms every two years or continue yearly screening.
At Akira, we offer screening mammograms in an environment designed with your comfort in mind. We’re not just an imaging center but your partners in proactive health! Our team understands that getting a mammogram can be a bit daunting, especially if it’s your first time or if you’re not sure what to expect. That’s why we make sure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible, with our friendly staff guiding you through each step.
And remember, even if you’re not yet 40, it’s still a good idea to be familiar with your breasts and to report any changes to your healthcare provider. Breast self-exams and clinical exams by a doctor can help you stay on top of your breast health in the years leading up to your first mammogram.
Pap Smears and HPV Testing: A Dynamic Duo
Pap smears and HPV tests are like Batman and Robin for your cervical health. Together, they help detect early signs of cervical cancer, which is one of the most preventable cancers out there. If you’re between 21 and 65, these screenings should be part of your routine check-up.
A Pap smear checks for precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. This test is crucial because it can catch changes in cervical cells before they turn into cancer. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause of cervical cancer, and HPV testing can be done alongside a Pap smear to detect the virus early.
The guidelines recommend that women aged 21 to 29 have a Pap smear every three years. Starting at age 30 and continuing until age 65, it’s recommended to have a Pap smear combined with an HPV test (called co-testing) every five years or a Pap smear alone every three years. If you've had a total hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and cervix) for reasons not related to cervical cancer and have no history of cervical cancer or serious precancer, you may not need further Pap smears.
Regular screening is key to catching any changes early. If your test results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings or other follow-up tests to ensure your cervical health stays on track.
The best part? With regular screening, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers out there. So don’t skip those appointments—your cervix will thank you!
Bone Density Tests: Strength from the Inside Out
Ladies, we need to talk about our bones. After menopause, the risk of osteoporosis increases, which means bone density tests (also known as DEXA scans) are crucial for keeping tabs on your bone health. A bone density test measures your bones' strength and can help you and your healthcare provider decide on the best steps to keep them healthy.
Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease because you can’t feel your bones getting weaker. But the good news is that with regular bone density testing, you can catch it early and take steps to strengthen your bones. The test is quick, non-invasive, and gives you a clear picture of your bone health.
If you're over 65 or have risk factors for osteoporosis, this screening is essential. Risk factors include a family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged use of certain medications, such as steroids.
At Akira, we’re all about empowering you to stay strong—inside and out. If your test shows that your bones are losing density, there are plenty of options to help you maintain or improve your bone strength. These might include lifestyle changes like increasing your calcium and vitamin D intake, engaging in weight-bearing exercises, or taking medications prescribed by your doctor.
Cholesterol and Blood Pressure: Heart Smart
Your heart works hard every day—show it some love with regular cholesterol and blood pressure checks. High cholesterol and blood pressure can sneak up on you, leading to heart disease and stroke. Keeping tabs on these numbers helps you stay ahead of any potential issues and maintain a healthy heart.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood, and while your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, having high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. High cholesterol can cause fatty deposits in your blood vessels, which can eventually make it difficult for enough blood to flow through your arteries. Sometimes, those deposits can break suddenly and form a clot that causes a heart attack or stroke.
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. If it's consistently too high, it can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. High blood pressure is often called "the silent killer" because it doesn’t usually cause symptoms until significant damage has already been done.
Women should have cholesterol levels checked every 4 to 6 years, starting at age 20. Blood pressure should be checked at least every two years starting at age 18. If you have a family history of heart disease or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing.
Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can help keep these numbers in check. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol are all great ways to keep your heart happy.
Diabetes Screening: Stay Sweet, Stay Healthy
Diabetes is more common than you might think, but with regular screening, it’s manageable. If you’re over 45 or have risk factors like a family history, being overweight, or a sedentary lifestyle, it’s time to get your blood sugar checked. Prevention is key, and staying on top of your numbers helps you stay ahead of the game.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin or when your pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and vision problems. But, with early detection and proper management, these complications can often be avoided.
The American Diabetes Association recommends that adults aged 45 and older should be screened for diabetes, particularly if they are overweight or obese. If results are normal, screening should be repeated every three years. However, if you have additional risk factors, such as a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of gestational diabetes, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing.
A simple blood test can tell you a lot about your blood sugar levels. The A1C test measures your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months, giving a clear picture of your risk for diabetes. If your levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range, you may be diagnosed with prediabetes. In this case, lifestyle changes can often prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
If you do have diabetes, there’s no need to panic. With the right support and management, you can live a healthy and active life. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, if necessary, medication can help you keep your blood sugar levels under control.
Colon Cancer Screening: Early Detection Matters
Colon cancer screenings are crucial once you hit 45. Whether it’s a colonoscopy or a stool test, catching any signs early can make all the difference. Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in both men and women, but it's also one of the most preventable with regular screening.
Colon cancer typically starts as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time, some of these polyps can become colon cancers. Regular screening can help find these polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.
A colonoscopy is the most common screening method, and while it might not be the most fun experience, it’s absolutely worth it for your health. During a colonoscopy, your doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end to view the inside of your colon and rectum. If any polyps are found, they can often be removed right away, preventing them from becoming cancerous.
If you’re not a fan of the idea of a colonoscopy, there are other screening options, such as stool tests, which check for signs of cancer in your stool. These tests are less invasive but should be done more frequently.
The guidelines recommend that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45. If you have a higher risk—due to a family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or other risk factors—you may need to start screening earlier and/or be screened more often.
Early detection matters because when colorectal cancer is found at an early stage before it has spread, the 5-year relative survival rate is about 90%. So, don't wait—talk to your doctor about when you should start screening.
Skin Checks: Love the Skin You’re In
Our skin is our largest organ, so let’s not forget about it! Regular skin checks help catch any suspicious moles or spots early, and early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, have a family history of skin cancer, or have a lot of moles, make this a yearly habit.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but it’s also one of the most preventable. The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is the most serious form and can be life-threatening if not detected early.
You can do a self-exam at home by checking your skin from head to toe, looking for any new moles, growths, or changes in existing moles. The “ABCDE” rule is a good guide to follow:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other half.
- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Color: The color isn’t the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, or sometimes patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
- Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about ¼ inch—the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller than this.
- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
If you notice any of these signs, or if a mole looks different from the rest, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Having your skin checked by a professional can help catch skin cancer early when it’s most treatable.
Don’t forget the sunscreen! Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is one of the best ways to prevent skin cancer. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours if you’re outside.
Ready to Take Charge of Your Health?
These screenings are essential for maintaining your health and catching any issues before they become bigger problems. At Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness, we’re all about making your health journey as smooth and comfortable as possible. We understand that life gets busy, and it’s easy to put off health screenings but remember: your health is your most valuable asset. Taking care of it should be a top priority.
Whether you’re due for a screening mammogram or just need some guidance on the next steps, we’re here for you every step of the way. Our state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate staff make it easy to stay on top of your health, and we’re always here to answer any questions you might have.
Booking your appointment is easy—just give us a call or visit our website to request an appointment. And remember, we’re not just here for mammograms or DEXA Scans. We’re here to keep you healthy and informed about your body.
Your health is your wealth—invest in it wisely! And when it comes to taking care of your health, think Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness. We’re here to make sure you feel supported, informed, and empowered to make the best decisions for your well-being. Let’s work together to keep you happy, healthy, and thriving!