Essential Health Checks for Women Over 45
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As women age, regular health checks become increasingly important for maintaining wellbeing and detecting potential health issues early. After the age of 45, proactive health assessments help manage risks associated with ageing and promote a healthier, more vibrant life. Particularly, health checks are helpful for understanding and managing menopause symptoms. Below are the key health checks every woman over 45 should consider.
1. Heart Health Check
A heart health check assesses critical risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol levels, helping to evaluate the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Heart disease is a leading cause of death among Australian women, often presenting with symptoms that differ from those seen in men, such as fatigue, dizziness, or nausea during a heart attack. A heart health check assesses critical risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol levels, helping to evaluate the risk of heart attack or stroke.
In Australia, all adults aged 45 and over (or 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) are eligible for a Medicare-rebated heart health check. 2, 5 Regular checks are recommended every two years for women aged 45-79. 8
2. Vision and Hearing Examinations
Age-related changes in vision and hearing can significantly impact quality of life and increase the risk of falls. Routine eye exams are essential to detect conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and early signs of systemic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, and support issues such as dry eye..
Women should also schedule annual hearing tests, as early detection of hearing loss can prevent further deterioration. Medicare covers yearly eye examinations for individuals aged 65 and older.1, 4
3. Osteoporosis Risk Assessment
Post-menopausal women are at an increased risk of osteoporosis due to declining bone density. A bone density scan (DEXA scan) measures bone strength and helps assess fracture risk. Preventive measures like weight-bearing exercises and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake can support bone health and reduce the likelihood of fractures.1, 6
This free online tool can be used to help you estimate your fracture risk.
4. Mental Health Evaluation
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Factors such as hormonal changes, grief, or social isolation can contribute to anxiety and depression. Regular mental health check-ins with a GP or mental health professional can provide necessary support. Government programs like Head to Health offers free and confidential mental health resources for Australian women. 3, 8
Professor Jayashri Kulkarni’s Meno-D questionnaire is tailored specifically for mental health concerns in midlife women. Learn more and take the free Meno-D test, here.
Women’s Midlife/Menopause Health Checks offer a holistic, evidence-based approach to getting the right support.
5. Menopause Health Check
Navigating menopause can be challenging, but a comprehensive health check can provide crucial support. Women’s Midlife/Menopause Health Checks offer a holistic, evidence-based approach designed by experts such as Romy Bursztyn (Clinical Nutritionist and Women’s Health Coach) and Caitlin O’Mahony (Integrative GP and Vice President of the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine).
Key areas of focus include:
Cardiometabolic Health: Managing midlife risk factors for long-term health, energy and vitality.
Musculoskeletal Strength: Supporting bone, joint and muscle health for an active lifestyle.
Metabolic Wellness: Promoting energy balance and vitality
Mental Wellbeing: Cultivating resilience, confidence, and emotional balance.
Their approach goes beyond symptom management, providing personalized interventions that empower you to feel strong, confident, and healthy during this transformative stage of life.
6. Cancer Screenings
Routine cancer screenings are essential for early detection
Routine cancer screenings are essential for early detection:
Breast Cancer: Women aged 50-74 should have mammograms every two years.
Cervical Cancer: A cervical screening test is recommended every five years until the age of 74.
Bowel Cancer: Women aged 45-74 can access free bowel screening tests every two years. 4, 7
This online calculator can provide an indication of your risk of cancer.
7. Diabetes Screening
The risk of developing diabetes increases with age. Women over 45 should discuss their risk factors with their GP and undergo regular screenings, particularly if they have high blood pressure, a family history of diabetes, or other risk factors. 6, 9
This free online risk calculator can help you estimate your risk of diabetes.
Summary
Prioritising health checks after 45 is essential for early detection and effective management of potential health concerns. Women should consult their healthcare providers to schedule these assessments based on their individual needs. Open conversations about lifestyle, family history, and symptoms can significantly enhance preventive care strategies, ensuring a healthier and more fulfilling life.
References
Better Health Victoria, 2023. Regular health checks. Available at: <https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/regular-health-checks.
Jean Hailes for Women's Health, 2023. Hormones and heart health: when to get a heart check. Available at: <https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/news/hormones-and-heart-health-when-to-get-a-heart-check> .
Health Screen, 2023. Women's health checks. Available at: <https://healthscreen.com.au/womens-health-checks/>.
Queensland Health, 2023. Women's health at every age. Available at: <https://www.health.qld.gov.au/newsroom/features/womens-health-at-every-age> .
Heart Health Check, 2023. What is a heart check? Available at: <https://hearthealthcheck.org.au/what-is-heart-check>.
Medibank, 2023. Health check: 45 to 49 health assessment. Available at: <https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/health-brief/health-check/45-to-49-health-assessment/>.
Better Health Victoria, 2023. Health checks for women. Available at: <https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/health-checks-for-women> .
Jean Hailes for Women's Health, 2023. Health checks for women. Available at: <https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/resources/health-checks-for-women> .
Health Direct, 2023. Manage your health in your 40s. Available at: <https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/manage-your-health-in-your-40s> .
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