During National Women’s Health Week, Medical Providers at Jefferson Regional are encouraging women to prioritize preventative screenings and routine health care appointments.
Amanda Lem, an advanced practice registered nurse with Southeast Arkansas OBGYN Associates, discussed changing health screening guidelines and common health concerns for women during a recent radio interview.
Lem said preventative care remains one of the most important ways women can identify health problems early, including cervical cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer.
According to Lem, recommendations for cervical cancer screenings have changed in the recent years. Current guidelines generally recommended pap smears beginning at age 21 rather than earlier ages previously used in the past.
She explained that research involving HPV, or human papillomavirus, has shown that many younger women naturally clean the virus through their immune systems without medical intervention. Earlier screenings sometimes resulted in procedures that could increase risks for complications such as preterm labor.
Women between ages 21 and 30 can typically receive screenings every 3 to 5 years in results remain normal, while women over 30 may be screened every 5 years in some cases.
Lem also discussed mammogram recommendations, which generally begin at age 40 for women considered average risk. Some updated recommendations suggest mammograms may eventually be spaced every two years after the age of 50, though Lem said those decisions should be made individually with healthcare providers based on risk factors and family history.
In addition to reproductive health, Lem noted that heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women, something she says many patients do not realize.
The interview also covered colon cancer screenings, which now often begin around age 45 depending on risk factors. Lem said options can range from at-home screening kits to full colonoscopies based on individual medical history and symptoms.
Jefferson Regional officials said women interested in screenings or preventative care services can contact Southeast Arkansas OBGYN Associates or the hospital’s centralized scheduling department for appointments and additional information.
