In spite of all the cutting-edge technology out there, still, women are not always testing themselves regularly for breast and cervical cancers. Now is as good time as any to start taking care of yourself…

Cutting Edge Technologies
There is a range of reasons why women are not getting themselves tested for breast and cervical cancer, points out Rozina Camarudin, head of Hologic Marketing for Europe, Middle East, and Canada. “Some women are unaware of the tests that are available; some feel they are healthy and fit so they don’t see the need while others don’t know how frequently they should be taking these tests. Or they are unaware that regular testing can identify breast or cervical cancers early, which make them easier to treat,” she says.

Guidelines
There are clear guidelines provided for testing for breast cancer and cervical cancer. The breast screening program in Dubai invites women between the ages of 40 and 70 for screening every year, reveals Rozina. “The mammogram is carried out using systems such as Hologic’s 3Dimensions Mammography System, which takes images of each breast, enabling anomalies to be identified,” she says as the DHA’s Guidelines for Cervical Cancer Screening recommends that all women aged 25 to 65 years undergo a Pap smear test, every three to five years. It is important for women to know that the recently announced Basmah initiative, the basic benefit plan of the Dubai Mandatory Health Insurance Scheme, now covers screening as well as treatment of breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer.

A Champion of Women’s Health
The major diseases that woman face today includes heart disease and cancer. In addition, increasing rates of obesity can lead to other health problems. It is very important that women monitor their health and take advantage of tests that will help to detect any problems early, tells Rozina. “Delivering life-changing and life-saving diagnostic, detection, surgical, and medical aesthetic products driven by technology helps empower women and helps healthcare professionals diagnose and treat their patients with growing certainty and precision, she says.

Health Tips for Women:

1. If you are a woman between the ages of 40 and 70, make sure that you are undergoing a mammogram regularly.

2. If you are a woman between 25 to 65 years and haven’t had a Pap smear test, book an appointment to have one.

3. If you are a woman between 25 to 65 years who have had a Pap smear test but it’s been over three years, book an appointment to have a test.

4. Make sure you look after yourself physically and mentally – eating a balanced diet, exercising, and getting plenty of sleep are a good place to start.

5. It’s important to be aware of what is normal for your body and if something changes, to discuss it with a healthcare professional.

(Credit: Rozina Camarudin)