A recent survey conducted by Gallup for the medical technology company Hologic reveals a startling trend: an estimated 72 million women in the United States have skipped or delayed a recommended health screening. Even though 90% of women acknowledge the importance of regular health check-ups, more than 40% have missed or postponed these essential tests. The survey highlights a significant issue in women’s health priorities, with over 60% of respondents admitting that they find it challenging to prioritize their health.
This trend is particularly prominent among younger women, with 74% of Generation Z and 70% of millennial women stating that they struggle to make their health a priority, compared to 52% of baby boomers and 39% of the Silent Generation. Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University, expressed concern over these findings, noting that many women only focus on their health after a chronic illness diagnosis. Wen emphasized the societal lack of emphasis on preventive care and the numerous barriers that women face in accessing these services.
Importance of Preventive Screenings
Dr. Wen underlined the critical role of regular health screenings in early diagnosis and treatment, particularly for cancer. She pointed out that one in five women globally will develop cancer in their lifetime, and early treatment significantly improves survival rates. Screenings for cancer are designed to detect the disease before symptoms appear, making early detection crucial.
The survey results are troubling, especially considering the rise in early-onset cancers, defined as cancers diagnosed in individuals younger than 50. Between 1990 and 2019, the incidence of early-onset cancers increased by 79%. In the U.S., while overall cancer rates have decreased for those over 50, they have risen for individuals under 50. The survey found that 41% of U.S. women delayed or skipped breast cancer screenings, 35% skipped cervical cancer screenings, and 33% skipped colorectal cancer screenings.
Recommended Screenings and Steps for Women
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) provides clear guidelines for cancer screenings. For breast cancer, they recommend biennial screenings for women aged 40 to 74. Cervical cancer screenings are advised every three years for women aged 21 to 29 and every three to five years for women aged 30 to 65, depending on the type of test used. For colorectal cancer, screenings should begin at age 45 for both men and women.
These guidelines apply to women at average risk. Those with higher risk factors, such as a family history of cancer, may need to start screenings earlier and undergo additional tests. For example, women with a first-degree relative with breast cancer might need an MRI in addition to a mammogram and could be referred for genetic testing.
Dr. Wen advises that women should have a primary care provider for annual visits to monitor health screening schedules. They should also be aware of their medical circumstances and family history, as well as discuss lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity with their doctors.
Beyond cancer, screenings for other chronic diseases are essential. Blood pressure checks should be part of annual visits to screen for hypertension. The USPSTF also recommends screening for diabetes in adults aged 35 to 70 who are overweight or obese and for high cholesterol in women aged 45 and older who are at increased risk of heart disease.
Women’s reproductive health should also be addressed during check-ups, including discussions about pregnancy plans and contraceptive options. Health screening for sexually transmitted infections is another vital component of routine health care. Lastly, mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and women should discuss any concerns related to depression, anxiety, and stress with their healthcare providers. There are many treatment options available, and no one should suffer in silence.
