It is extremely important for women to be proactive in their own health. Self-monitoring and regular screenings are crucial for early detection of cancers and other issues. Early detection results in more timely treatment which can significantly increase the chance of survival.
Breast Cancer
Major risk factors for breast cancer in women are age, genetic predisposition, and estrogen exposure. Women at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndromes should be identified by healthcare professionals by thoroughly examining their personal and family history. Patients with concerning family history should be referred to a genetic counselor for a formal genetic assessment. If a female notices abnormal breast discharge, breast pain, skin changes on the breast, a breast lump or changes to the nipple, prompt evaluation by a health care provider should be done1.
For average-risk women, clinicians should discuss breast cancer screening with all women starting at age 40. The American Cancer Society recommends women between the ages of 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screenings with mammograms if they desire; women ages 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year; women ages 55 and older could switch to mammograms every 2 years or they can continue yearly screening. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., adult women of all ages are encouraged to perform self-breast exams at least once a month1. John Hopkins Medical Center states, “Forty percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump, so establishing a regular breast self-exam is very important2.”
Cervical Cancer
It is recommended to have a cervical cancer screening for women between the ages of 21 and 65 years. For women ages 21 to 29, it is suggested to have a Pap smear screening every three years. For women ages 30 to 64, it is suggested to have a Pap smear screening every three years or co-testing (Pap smear and human papillomavirus [HPV] testing) every five years if both initial tests are negative. Women 65 years and older who have had adequate negative prior screenings and are not at increased risk, do not need to be screened. Risk factors for cervical cancer include a history of an abnormal Pap test, current smoker or history of smoking, previous HPV-related disease, or new sexual partners. Women who have had a total hysterectomy for reasons other than cervical cancer or high-grade cervical cancer precursors need not be screened. If a female notices abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or pain during intercourse, she should contact her healthcare provider3.
Ovarian Cancer
A family history is essential to identifying women at high risk for ovarian cancer. Screening for ovarian cancer is not recommended for women at average risk. Since there is not a great screening tool to detect ovarian cancer, females can reduce their risk by having routine pelvic exams done. This is done when a healthcare provider palpates the pelvic organs to ensure no abnormalities are observed. If a female develops bloating, pelvic and/or abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling “full” quickly or abnormal urinary symptoms, she is encouraged to see her health care provider as soon as possible4.
Being proactive with your health and conducting regular screenings can be life-saving. Make sure to reach out to your healthcare provider to develop a plan that is right for you!
©2022HealthSpot References: (1) “Breast Cancer Risk Factors and Prevention Methods.” American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention.html. (2) Brown, Ken. Breast Cancer Screening: Johns Hopkins Breast Center, 15 Nov. 2017, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/breast_center/treatments_services/breast_cancer_screening/. (3) “Cervical Cancer Symptoms: Signs of Cervical Cancer.” American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html. (4) “Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer.” American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html.