by BR Amelia
First things first... If you find or feel anything that doesn't look or feel right - ANYTHING - please speak to a health professional. This article does not replace you taking appropriate action the moment it's required. So, with that said...
When's the last time you did your body WoF? Had yourself checked over? Kept on top of your lumps and bumps? While it's all well and good to think "I'll get it sorted next week", when it comes to our health we owe it to ourselves to stay on top of things. So what needs to be checked and when?
Breasts
Our breasts are as individual as we are, which is why it's important that you get to know yours so you can tell if anything changes. The easiest way to do this is to regularly check them. According to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, the best time to check your breasts is around a week after your period, at which point you want to give them a little TLC, otherwise known as touch, look and check. Not sure how? There's more information about that here on the Breast Cancer Foundation website.
In New Zealand mammograms become free from the ages of 45 -to 69 and are offered every two years as part of a programme run by BreastScreen Aotearoa. To check eligibiity, for more information, or to sign up, visit the Time To Screen website.
Cervix
When caught early, cervical cancer is very treatable, which is why if you have a cervix and have been sexually active it's important you have a smear. Currently it's recommended that you be tested every three years if you're between the ages of 26 to 69, or as directed by your health practitioner.
It's worth noting that from July 2023 there will be a change to the way we test for cervical cancer, but if before then you get the reminder to book an appointment for a smear you should make the appointment.
Skin
Much like your breasts, it's important you become familiar with your skin so that if any changes occur you can take the next steps to keeping yourself well. Every three months is the recommended timing to check your skin, and during your check you need to check all the nooks and crannies - including behind the ears, on your scalp, under your armpits, between your toes, and even the soles of your feet. It's a good idea to have a trusted friend or family member check the areas you can't. As for what to look for, and when to take action? Check out the Sunsmart website.
Alternatively, if the budget allows, you can book in for an annual skin mapping appointment, which may use photography, dermoscopy and digital technology to spot as well as keep track of changes in the skin. Providers often have their own methods and points of differences, so doing your research before making an appointment is important.
Teeth
It's so easy to ignore our gnashers, especially when they're not giving us any grief. That being said, regular check ups (once or twice a year for monitoring and cleaning seems to be what's recommended on the dentist's websites we checked), will pick up any small problems, which will avoid you dealing with a big problem and shelling out the big dollars down the track.
So, how up to date are you with your body's WoF? Are you in need of a tune up? Or is your body check engine running smoothly? Get chatting below!
I'm pretty up-to-date, now that I'm registered on the wonderful national screening programmes we have here, and being pale I make sure I get a yearly skin check. The dentist is one I'm always tempted to put off, but I know it'll save money (and pain!) in the long run. I do forget to do regular breast checks though... Such a simple thing to do too, and it could save your life! Good reminder, thanks.