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Keep track of your health every year with these 10 tests

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With an increase in the incidence of cervical cancer, breast cancer, and other conditions in women, yearly health tests have become imperative. According to experts, timely detection of a condition is an important factor that determinesits cure. If you are worried about the hospital bills, a health insurance plan can come to your rescue. A health insurance policy for women caters to the common medical issues that women face. If you are taking online health insurance, choose one that not only covers preventive tests and minor illnesses, but major and critical ones as well.

Here is a look at the important health screenings every woman needs.

Important health tests for women

1. Blood pressure screening:High blood pressure results in the formation of blood clots in the arteries and this can damage the blood vessels. Hence, timely screening, detection, and treatment can alleviate the probability of having a heart attack or stroke. A reading of 120/80 mmHg is ideal.
2. Cholesterol test: If you are 30 years or older, you must get your cholesterol measured every year. This is important to rule out the risk of getting a heart disease or stroke. In case your cholesterol is on the higher side, your healthcare practitioner may prescribe medicines and also suggest diet and lifestyle changes to keep the condition in check.
3. Blood glucose test: Blood glucose test for diabetes or pre-diabetes is important, especially if the condition runs in the family and you have some symptoms of it. This is a simple blood test done in a lab or doctor’s clinic. While the normal blood glucose range may vary, a result of 100mg/dL or higher may indicate pre-diabetes or diabetes.
4. Mammograms:This is one of the most important prevention tests for women.If there is a family history of breast cancer, your healthcare practitioner would suggest clinical exams and screening mammograms. The tests are done to see if you are at risk of developing breast cancer linked to certain genes. In case you are at risk, your healthcare practitioner would suggest further tests and genetic counselling.
5. PAP smear or HPV test: This test is done to look for signs of cervical cancer. It helps detect abnormal cells in the cervix. When the cells are detected early, healthcare practitioners remove them before they turn cancerous. HPV or human papillomavirus, a type of STD, is the main cause of cervical cancer.
6. Bone density test: This test is particularly important for senior citizens. However, those who have low body weight and other risk factors should be screened at an earlier age to prevent fractures and other associated conditions. In this test, an X-ray machine is used to take the image of your bones. The frequency of bone density tests depends on your bone density and other factors.
7. Eye test: If you wear contact lenses or glasses, make sure you get your vision checked every year. Also, visit an eye doctor any time you experience any vision problem.
8. Dental test: Get your teeth checked and cleaned every year to prevent tartar build-up, cavities, tooth decay, and other issues. Yearly examination ensures early detection and timely treatment of dental problems.
9. Skin test:This is important to rule out the risk of skin cancer. A medical professional will perform screenings based on your risk factors, such as a family history of skin cancer, sun exposure, fair skin, the presence of new and unusual moles, and changes to existing moles.
10. Colon cancer screening: If you are 50 years or older, make sure you get screened for colon cancer. There are different tests, such as yearly stool test, colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, double-contrast barium enema, and computed tomographic colonoscopy.

Important tips for health check-ups

Here are some important points to keep in mind every time you visit a doctor for a health check-up.

1. Be honest about your lifestyle habits:Have an honest conversation with your doctor, regarding your lifestyle and habits. Based on this, your doctor will decide on the right tests and treatment for you. They will also suggest the changes you should make for a healthier life. In case there is a family history of any condition, remember to tell your doctor about it.
2. Be prepared:Whenever you are visiting a doctor for health tests, come prepared with the questions you wantto ask. You can also note them down on your phone or a piece of paper. Also, carry your previous test reports, medical prescriptions, X-rays, and more for your doctor’s reference.
3. Be direct: In case you are worried, anxious or uncomfortable about a test or treatment, convey this to your doctor. Also, if you are not clear about the new medication or treatment, ask your doctor without any hesitation.

Conclusion:

The sooner a health condition isdetected; the better is the treatment and recovery. This is what makes yearly health checkups so important. And when you have a health insurance policy for women, you need not worry about the test or hospital bills either. The comprehensive healthinsurance plan that covers preventive health check-ups, major and critical illnesses, surgical procedures and more is perfect to secure your health and finances.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.