Hey Lykkers! Let's get real—women often juggle family, career, and social commitments, and sometimes their own health gets pushed aside.

But staying on top of regular checkups is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illnesses and maintain long-term wellness.

According to the World Health Organization, women live longer—by about four to six years on average compared to men—but they are also more likely to experience chronic diseases and mental health issues. That makes preventive care essential. From heart health to reproductive care, these screenings can literally save lives. Let's explore the essential health checkups every woman should know.

1. Annual Physical Exam

A yearly physical is the foundation for preventive healthcare. During this visit, your doctor will:

- Measure blood pressure, weight, and BMI

- Review your medical history and medications

- Check for early signs of chronic conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or heart disease

Data shows that women who attend regular annual exams are 30% more likely to have chronic conditions detected early, improving outcomes and reducing hospitalization rates.

2. Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Screening

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the U.S. High blood pressure or high cholesterol often shows no symptoms but significantly increases risk. Regular screening helps detect these issues early:

- Blood pressure should be checked at least once a year

- Cholesterol tests (lipid profile) are recommended every 4–6 years or more frequently if risk factors exist

Early detection allows timely interventions through lifestyle changes, diet, exercise, or medication, reducing the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

3. Blood Sugar Testing

Type 2 diabetes can develop silently, with subtle symptoms such as fatigue or frequent urination.

- Recommended: Fasting blood glucose or HbA1c every three years starting at age 35, or earlier if overweight or with family history

- CDC data shows about 13% of women in the U.S. have diabetes—and many remain undiagnosed.

Early detection helps prevent serious complications like nerve damage and heart disease.

4. Reproductive Health Checkups

a. Pap Smear

Pap tests detect abnormal cervical cells to prevent cervical cancer, recommended every three years for women age 21–65, or every five years with HPV testing. Regular screening has helped reduce cervical cancer rates by over 50%.

b. Pelvic Exam

These exams can detect ovarian cysts, fibroids, or infections early.

c. Mammogram

Mammograms detect chest tissue cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

- ACS guidelines recommend annual mammograms from age 40–44 (optional), strongly recommending from age 45–54, and every other year for 55+.

- A study of over half a million women found that regular screening reduced the risk of death from chest cancer by about 41% within 10 years.

- Another report notes long-term mortality has dropped by 44% since 1989, averting hundreds of thousands of deaths.

5. Skeletal Health Assessment

Osteoporosis risk increases after menopause. A DEXA scan is recommended at age 65, or earlier if you have risk factors such as family history, low body weight, or prior fractures. Early treatment can reduce fracture risk by up to 50%.

6. Eye and Dental Checkups

- Eye exams every 1–2 years help detect glaucoma, cataracts, and vision changes

- Dental checkups twice a year prevent cavities, gum disease, and may reveal early signs of systemic conditions like diabetes

7. Mental Health Screening

Women are more prone to anxiety and depression, especially during hormonal transitions like postpartum or menopause. Regular check-ins with a physician or mental health professional help detect symptoms early. According to WHO data, depression affects nearly 5% of women worldwide, emphasizing the importance of mental health monitoring.

8. Vaccinations

Keeping vaccinations up-to-date protects against preventable diseases. Key vaccines for women include:

- Influenza (yearly)

- Tdap (every 10 years)

- HPV (if not completed earlier)

- COVID-19 booster (as recommended)

Vaccinated women not only protect themselves but also help reduce community transmission, a key public health goal.

Final Thoughts

Lykkers, prioritizing your health is not selfish—it's essential. Regular checkups empower you to detect issues early, maintain wellness, and live life to the fullest. Keeping track of these screenings, staying active, eating well, and discussing concerns openly with your doctor creates a foundation for lifelong health.

Remember, preventive care saves lives. Make your health a priority today—it's the best investment you'll ever make.