Dr KK Aggarwal
Padma Shri and Dr B C Roy National Awardee
President, Heart Care Foundation of India
*Malignant diseases (22.1%); and
*Cerebrovascular disease (6.7%).
The 3 most common cancers in women are
1. breast cancer
2. lung cancer
3. colorectal cancer
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends the first women’s health visit to take place between 13 and 15 years of age, and it should be followed with yearly visits.
For all age groups, the visit comprises a review of a patient’s medical history and a physical examination. Sexual behavior, nutrition, fitness, and risk factors that place patients at above average risk for certain common medical problems should be assessed in all age groups.
Cervical cancer screening and screening for sexually transmitted infections must start early. The human papillomavirus vaccine is also recommended in the 2 younger age groups.
In women 40 plus screening for colorectal cancer, diabetes, and hypothyroidism should be conducted periodically. Mammography should be started.
In older women, bone mineral density assessment is recommended biannually.
In women older than 30 years of age, cervical cytology can be performed less frequently: once every 3 years in the absence of risk factors or if HPV testing is negative.
