Written by Pamela Udejimba

Breast and cervical cancers are among the most prevalent cancers affecting women worldwide. However, with early detection and timely screening, these cancers can often be diagnosed at a stage when they are more treatable.
Breast Cancer Screening
1. Mammograms:

Starting at age 40, women should consider annual mammograms for breast cancer screening.Women with a family history or other risk factors may need earlier or more frequent mammograms. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine your risk.

2. Clinical Breast Examinations:

Regular clinical breast examinations by a healthcare provider should be conducted every 1-3 years for women in their 20s and 30s.After age 40, women should have annual clinical breast examinations.

3. Self-Breast Examinations: Regular self-breast examinations are encouraged. Women should become familiar with the look and feel of their breasts and report any changes to their healthcare provider.

Cervical Cancer Screening
1. Pap Smears: Regular Pap smears are crucial for cervical cancer screening. Typically, screening starts at age 21, and women should have Pap smears every 3 years.
2. HPV Testing: HPV testing may be recommended for women aged 30 and older, either alone or in combination with a Pap smear. If both tests are negative, women can often go 5 years between screenings.
3. Co-Testing: Co-testing with Pap smears and HPV testing is recommended every 5 years for women aged 30-65.
3. Vaccination: HPV vaccination is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer. It is recommended for both girls and boys starting at age 11 or 12.

Women must talk to their healthcare providers about their specific risk factors and screening schedules. The suggested screening schedule may be influenced by factors like family history, personal health history, and genetic predisposition. Regular screenings can greatly improve the likelihood of effective treatment and survival by detecting these cancers diseases early. These screening guidelines are a vital tool in the fight against cervical and breast cancer. Beyond following these guidelines, women are advised to have an open line of communication with their healthcare providers, ask questions, and request assistance when needed.
Please share your thoughts and experiences regarding cancer screening. Have you or someone you know been affected by breast or cervical cancer? How have regular screenings made a difference in your health journey? Do you have questions or concerns about cancer screening? Join the conversation, and together, lets raise awareness and empower women to prioritize their health.