Pap Smears & Breast Examinations at Parkhealth Medical Centres

Breast cancer and cervical cancer are two of the most common cancers found in women, both of which can have devastating consequences.

However, with regular pap smears and breast examinations, these cancers can be detected early and with that, successful treatment and/or prevention is possible.

What is a Pap Smear?

A pap smear is a procedure that aims to test for cervical cancer in women. The process involves collecting cells from the cervix for testing.

Detecting cancer cells early on offers women a greater chance of successfully treating or preventing cervical cancer. Thankfully, a pap smear does not only test for existing cancer cells but can detect abnormal cells before they have the chance to develop.

For this reason, it is highly recommended that women go for regular pap smears so that they can stay ahead of any possible malignant growth.

Who Needs a Pap Smear?

Any woman who is sexually active should go for regular pap smears. Furthermore, women between the age of 21 and 65 should be going for a pap smear at least every three years.

From the age of 30, women can consider going for routine pap smears every 5 years but it’s always best to get advice from your doctor about this.

Breast Examinations

Breast cancer presents with abnormal lumps in one or both breasts and these can be detected through regular breast examinations.

During the breast examination, your doctor will do a series of tests that will indicate any abnormalities in the shape, symmetry, or size of your breasts. You may be required to lift your arms overhead, put your hands on your hips, and sometimes you may be asked to lean forward.

Additionally, your doctor will do a physical examination of your breasts to feel for lumps or other abnormalities. At the same time, the area under both arms will also be checked.

Who Needs a Breast Examination?

From the age of 20, all women should go for a breast examination at least every three years, and from the age of 40, once a year.

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, your doctor may recommend that you have an examination done more frequently.

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