Robert N. Suter, DO of Methodist Charlton Medical Center Medical Group in Dallas quotes Benjamin Franklin when asked what are some of the recommendations he makes for all women regarding health screenings on a regular basis. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Indeed, and particular health issues affect certain female ethnic groups more often. For example, Suter says black women have a higher risk of cervical cancer than white women, and they are more than twice as likely to die from it.
The risk of osteoporosis is higher in white women than minorities of the same age groups. One in four African-American women over 55 faces a higher risk of diabetes as well as complications at the time of diagnosis.
For breast cancer, white women suffer a higher occurrence ratio; however, black women face a higher mortality rate. African Americans (both men and women) have a higher prevalence of glaucoma and perhaps a more rapid disease progression.
Suter says, “I recommend an annual physical for my patients to be sure they have completed the screenings and to review personal medical history and family history that might prompt a change to routine screening schedules.”
Suter also advices women of any ethnicity to be sure their vaccinations are up-to-date and review medications, supplements, and complementary therapies with all physicians regularly. “Keep a list of your physicians’ names, contact information, visit dates, and a current medication list with names and dosages,” he adds.
Overall, regular cervical cancer screening is an important screening for most women ages 21-65, with co-testing for HPV (human papillomavirus) between ages 30-65. Most primary care physicians recommend starting breast cancer screening with a mammography at age 40. Doctors also recommend screening for hypertension, cholesterol, and diabetes for all adults, especially those with risk factors or family history. At around age 50, adults should begin screening for colon cancer, and at age 65, women should start screening for osteoporosis.
“Certain risks factors indicate the need for additional or more aggressive screening tests, so be sure your doctor is aware of any new personal or family history of cancers, heart problems, medication changes, or other health concerns,” Suter concludes.