CHECK YOURSELF
THE HEALTH CHECKS EVERY WOMAN NEEDS TO DO
Here are the DIY health checks worth doing and what to give up…
BREAST SELFEXAMINATION
The practice of breast self-examination was established in the 1950s, before the invention of mammography. However, even back then, there were doubts about its effectiveness. These concerns were validated by some early 2000s studies, which found no benefits, and in fact, selfexamination leading to the diagnosis of lots of benign breast lumps with unnecessary biopsies and anxiety. In response, most countries, including Australia, recommend against breast selfexamination.
So what should you do? Be breast aware. That’s not a formal monthly self check, but know what your breasts normally feel like. Report any new lump to your doctor and book in for your regular screening mammogram. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, chat to your GP.
BOWEL CANCER SCREENING TEST
Colorectal cancer is the second-most common cancer in Australia and the second-most common cause of cancer death. The government will send you a self-sampling kit that will see you returning a stool sample via mail to look for blood. If it’s positive, you will be sent for a colonoscopy to see if there is a precancerous bowel polyp or a bowel cancer causing the bleeding. This screening test has been proven to detect cancers earlier and to save lives.
BMI AND WAIST CIRCUMFERENCE
Despite its flaws, BMI is still a useful measure of being overweight and obesity. It’s calculated from your height and weight. Studies show the higher your BMI, the bigger your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
Waist circumference is a good measure of fat around your organs, which is linked to heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. For men, ideal waist circumference should be less than 94cm and for women, below 80cm.
Find the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hips. Place a tape measure around your middle at a point halfway between them (just above the belly button). Pull it quite tight, but make sure it’s not digging into your skin. Breathe out naturally and take your measurement. Take it again, just to be sure. If your BMI and waist circumference are too high, speak to your doctor about getting help to lose weight.
Most health checks – like blood pressure monitoring, cervical cancer screening and blood tests – need the help of a doctor or other healthcare professional. So, a gentle reminder to book an appointment with your GP for a check-up!