Women's Health Week
Women’s Health Week is an annual event in Australia held in the first week of September. This initiative shines a spotlight on women’s health and wellbeing with the main aim to encourage females to use their voice and advocate for their health.
Routine health checks are an important way to look after yourself and can identify risks or pick up early signs of a health problem.
You will need different health checks throughout your life, here are the most common checks females should be prioritising:
Heart Health checks:
Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death for Australian women. Heart health checks are recommended from the age of 35 and then continued every 2 years from the ages of 45-79.
Cervical screenings:
Regular cervical cancer screenings are the best way to protect you from one of the most preventable cancers. You are encouraged to take a test every 5 years from the ages of 25 to 74. Your healthcare provider can do the screening, or you can collect the sample yourself.
Breast health checks:
Early detection of breast cancer can increase the chances of successful treatment. You can follow these 3 important steps to check your breasts:
- Check your breasts regularly so you can notice unusual changes. (lumps, dimpling, swelling)
- Report any changes to your doctor as soon as possible
- Have a mammogram every 2 years between the ages of 50 and 74
Bowel cancer health checks:
Bowel cancer is common and if detected early, 99% of cases can be treated successfully. If you are between the ages of 45 and 74 you will receive a free government testing kit in the mail every 2 years. This test can be done at home and sent off for testing. If you receive a positive result, your doctor may request you to undergo a colonoscopy.
Bone health checks:
A bone health check can assess your risk factors for osteoporosis such as family history and your intake of calcium and vitamin D. Due to menopause, females are at risk and should get a check every year. If you are over the age of 70, your doctor might suggest a bone density scan.
For more information on important health checks for women, visit the Jean Hailes Health checks for women fact sheet.
Source: betterhealth.vic.gov.au