May is Women’s Health Month, a time to remind women to focus on their health and well-being. It is more than just a calendar date; it is a chance to prioritize doctor visits, get necessary health checkups, and take care of both physical and mental health. Even if you are busy with family, work, or both, caring for your health keeps you strong in all areas of life.
Importance of Women’s Health Month
Women face unique health issues throughout their lives, like hormonal changes, breast cancer, and a higher risk of osteoporosis. Women’s Health Month spotlights these issues, promoting early detection, education, and support.
Role of Preventive Screenings
Preventive health care identifies potential health problems early, often before symptoms appear. Mammograms and DEXA scans are two critical screenings for women.
Mammograms: Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, but early detection improves survival rates significantly. The National Breast Cancer Foundation found that early detection has an up to 99% 5-year relative survival rate. Mammograms, a low-dose X-ray that is considered to be the gold standard for breast cancer screening, can detect early changes in breast tissue. The American Cancer Society advises women to start annual screenings between the ages of 40 and 44, depending on personal and family history.
Regular mammograms are essential, even for those feeling healthy, as they are quick, not painful, and greatly reduce breast cancer mortality.
DEXA Scans: Monitoring Bone Health
The risk of osteoporosis increases with age, particularly after menopause. DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scans are painless tests that measure bone density, identifying early signs of bone loss. This allows timely lifestyle adjustments or treatments to prevent fractures and maintain mobility.
Doctors usually recommend DEXA scans for women over 65 or younger women with risk factors like low body weight, family history of osteoporosis, or certain health conditions.
Empowering Women to Manage Their Health
Women’s Health Month empowers women to take charge of their health care by asking questions, being their health advocates, and staying informed. Whether scheduling your annual exam, discussing health goals with your doctor, or exploring nutrition and exercise, small steps can lead to significant changes.
This month, consider evaluating your health: Are your screenings up to date? Do you know your family medical history? Are you prioritizing mental health and self-care?
Women’s Health Month is an excellent opportunity to prioritize your health. By staying updated with screenings like mammograms and DEXA scans and focusing on holistic wellness, you invest in a healthier future. Encourage the women around you to do the same, as healthier women contribute to healthier families and communities.
You can learn more about digital mammograms, 3D mammograms, breast MRI, and DEXA bone scans to support your health on Advanced Medical Imaging Consultant’s website.
