Hit the dreaded 4O? Have no fear, life is still good at 40s, 50s and even the 60s. But you have to watch your health to be able to enjoy the good life. Health screening is important for women above 40. They are more prone to chronic diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis, hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. There is also an increased risk of contracting cancers such as breast cancer, cervical, uterine, ovarian, colorectal and lung cancer. Women above 40 are more susceptible because of the change in metabolism and the loss of the protective effective of oestrogen upon reaching menopause.
Health screening for women above 40 should include the normal battery of tests. Namely, ECG for the heart, chest X-ray, blood sugar test, yearly pap smear and ultrasound scanning of the pelvis. Older women should also go for mammogram and bone density test. For women above 50, an annual faecal occult blood test is advised. Ideally, a colonoscopy should be done every 3 - 5 years.
Of course, health screening is only for detection. Prevention is equally important and that mean living a healthy lifestyle - quit smoking, eating a proper diet and exercise regularly.
