WOMEN'S Health-check MUSTS

Health and wellness are often thought of as good nutrition, exercise and mindful living. But regular screenings for some of our greatest medical issues shouldn't be left off the list

- KAY BISSETT

TESTING THE FOUNDATIONS

PAP TEST

✣ What is it? 

The Papanicolaou test, most commonly known as the ‘pap smear’ or ‘pap test’ (and named after the inventor of the screening test, Georgios Papanicolaou), works by taking a sample of cells from the cervix and testing those for potentially cancerous cells and other harmful illnesses such as the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

✣ Why get tested?

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women in South Africa, affecting between 22.8 and 27 per 100 000 women as compared to the global average of 15.8. Since HPV is responsible for 99% of cervical cancers, a co-test is conducted at the same time.

✣ How often?

Assuming consistently normal results, women between the ages of 30 and 65 should aim for a pap test every three years, and an HPV screening every five years.

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, SEPTEMBER, www.cansa.org.za

MAMMOGRAM

✣ What is it? 

Mammograms use low-energy X-rays to detect abnormal masses in the breast tissue and, to date, have been considered the go-to for breast cancer detection. Opinions are starting to vary considerably as to the frequency of mammograms since the potential for overdiagnosis and false positives remains high. Today a woman’s risk profile is considered, including genetic markers and family history.

✣ Why get tested?

Breast cancer is the leading cancer concern for women in South Africa, and early detection is crucial in tackling treatment and improving your quality of life.

✣ How often?