Preventative health screenings are crucial in safeguarding women’s health throughout their lives. Regular and targeted screenings enable the early detection of conditions that disproportionately impact women, significantly improving the chances of successful management and positive outcomes. From reproductive health and fertility considerations in younger women, through the transitional perimenopausal years, and into menopause, each stage presents unique health challenges requiring vigilant monitoring.
In this blog, we will explore the importance of preventative screening throughout each key stage of a woman’s life – from fertility to menopause – and highlight the significance of Echelon Health’s Cullinan Assessment, specifically designed for women aged 40 and above to target diseases commonly associated with women’s health.
The Gender Gap in Health Research and Diagnosis
The stark underrepresentation of women’s health in medical research has led to significant disparities in healthcare provision and outcomes. With less than 2.5% of publicly funded research devoted to female health conditions, women often face delayed access to effective tests, treatments and medication. This underrepresentation even extends to clinical trials, where men have historically outnumbered women 3:1 in studies for conditions such as congestive heart failure.
Heart Disease in Women
Women’s experience with heart disease presents unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Unlike men, women often exhibit milder, later-onset, and atypical symptoms, making heart disease more difficult to detect. This delayed recognition can result in more advanced cardiac damage and poorer health outcomes. Adding to the complexity, standard diagnostic tests for heart disease are less accurate in women, further complicating timely detection. Moreover, women may experience heart attacks without the classic symptoms of chest pain. Instead, they might present with less obvious signs such as nausea or vomiting, which can be easily misinterpreted as common ailments such as acid reflux or flu.
Osteoporosis in Women
Osteoporosis, often perceived as a predominantly female health concern, presents a more complex reality. While it is true that women are four times more likely to develop the condition, osteoporosis affects both genders, albeit at different ages and rates. This nuanced understanding is crucial, as the widespread misconception that bone density decline primarily impacts postmenopausal women has led to significant health disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Surprisingly, some evidence suggests that men may face more severe osteoporosis-related complications when the condition does occur.
Lung Cancer in Women
The landscape of lung cancer mortality in the UK has undergone significant changes since the early 1970s, revealing a stark gender disparity. While overall lung cancer mortality rates have decreased by 31%, a closer look at gender-specific trends paints a more complex picture. Alarmingly, female lung cancer mortality rates have surged by 77%, standing in sharp contrast to the 59% decrease observed in males. Despite recent improvements, lung cancer remains a significant health concern for women, with mortality rates in the UK still higher than in many EU countries.
Strides in Preventive Health Care
While the UK government has introduced a Women’s Health Strategy to reduce gender healthcare inequalities, and the World Economic Forum has recently launched the Global Alliance for Women’s Health to change how women’s health is funded and prioritised, turning this tide will take time.
It is this disparity that has inspired Echelon Health to develop The Cullinan Assessment – a comprehensive health evaluation designed specifically for women’s unique health needs.
Reproductive Years
During the reproductive years, hormonal balance plays a vital role in women’s fertility and overall well-being. Estrogen, progesterone and other hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and reproductive functions. A woman’s fertility typically peaks during her 20s and early 30s but gradually declines in the early 30s and more rapidly after age 35.
Preventative Screenings for Reproductive Health
Several conditions can impact reproductive health during these years, making regular screenings essential. Endometriosis occurs when uterine lining tissue grows outside the uterus, leading to pain and potential infertility. Uterine fibroids, benign tumors in the uterus, can cause heavy bleeding and pelvic discomfort, while polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder, may disrupt ovulation and fertility. Additionally, interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic condition that results in pelvic pain often mistaken for other urinary disorders.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination play a crucial role in protecting reproductive health. The NHS offers routine Pap tests (also known as cervical screening) starting at age 21, with follow-ups every three years for women aged 21-30 if results are negative. The NHS also provides the HPV vaccine, available for individuals up to age 45, offering significant protection against cervical cancer by preventing high-risk strains of the virus. Making good use of available regular screenings and proactive health measures can help detect and manage these conditions early.
Breast Cancer Screening for Younger Women
While regular mammograms are typically recommended for women over 40, some experts advocate for earlier screenings for those with a family history of breast cancer or other significant risk factors. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate timing for mammograms and other breast health assessments.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing
Regular STI screening is a vital component of reproductive health, particularly for sexually active women. Women under 25 are encouraged to undergo routine screenings for gonorrhea and chlamydia, as these infections often present no symptoms but can lead to serious reproductive complications if untreated. Screening for syphilis and hepatitis B should be tailored to individual risk factors, ensuring appropriate detection and management. Additionally, HIV screening is available for all women aged 15-65 as part of routine healthcare, allowing for early diagnosis and timely intervention if needed.
The Importance of Preventative Screenings for Younger Women
Undertaking regular preventative health screenings and following a healthy lifestyle are vital in optimising reproductive health. By staying proactive with health assessments, women can detect potential health issues early and take the necessary steps to maintain long-term well-being.
Transitioning to Perimenopause
Perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s 40s, though it can start as early as their 30s. During this phase, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, the ovaries begin to slow down, and ovulation becomes inconsistent, triggering a range of physical and emotional changes.
The Perimenopause Care Gap
Despite the significant impact of perimenopause on women’s health, testing and diagnosis at this stage remain a grey area within the NHS, with limited acknowledgment and resources dedicated to addressing its challenges. It is striking that, despite the abundance of tests marketed to women – many of which lack accuracy – the complex biological changes that occur during perimenopause remain largely unexplored and poorly understood. This lack of structured support often leaves women navigating perimenopause without clear medical guidance or adequate interventions.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause
- Irregular periods or changes in menstrual cycle
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes, including irritability and anxiety
- Fatigue
- Weight gain and changes in body shape
- Short-term memory problems and difficulty concentrating
Preventative Screenings During Perimenopause
While there are tests available to assess hormonal changes and health risks during perimenopause, they are not routinely offered, leading to inconsistencies in access and awareness. There are significant variations between GPs and NHS Trusts in offering these screenings, meaning many women are unaware that they could request certain tests to monitor their health during this transition. As a result, perimenopause often goes undiagnosed, leaving women to manage symptoms without proper medical support or intervention.
Increased awareness and proactive discussions with healthcare providers and menopause clinics can help bridge this gap, ensuring that women receive the screenings and care they need during this crucial stage of life.
Hormone Level Testing
While a single follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test is not a definitive indicator of perimenopause due to natural fluctuations in hormone levels, a comprehensive hormone panel can provide a clearer picture of overall hormonal balance. FSH levels tend to rise as ovarian function declines, but since they can vary significantly from day to day, a single measurement could be misleading. More informative assessments may include estradiol, which helps gauge estrogen production, as well as thyroid function tests, since thyroid disorders can mimic perimenopausal symptoms. Despite the availability of these tests, they are not routinely offered through the NHS, leading many women to remain unaware that they could request them for a better understanding of their perimenopausal transition.
Bone Density Screening
As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause, the risk of osteoporosis increases, making bone health a critical concern. A DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is the most reliable method for assessing bone density and identifying early signs of osteoporosis or osteopenia. While routine DEXA scans are generally recommended from age 65, some experts suggest a baseline scan as early as age 45, particularly for women with risk factors such as a family history of osteoporosis, low body weight or previous fractures. In addition to bone density scans, regular monitoring of vitamin D levels, calcium intake, and bone turnover markers can help assess bone health and the rate of bone loss.
Access to DEXA scans through the NHS is not guaranteed for all women in perimenopause. Eligibility varies by GP practice and NHS Trusts, and many women are unaware they could request a referral if they have risk factors for osteoporosis.
Cardiovascular Health Assessments
Perimenopause increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly declining estrogen levels. To manage this risk, essential health assessments should include a comprehensive lipid panel, as studies show that cardiovascular risk rises by 50% during this transition. Blood pressure monitoring is also crucial, as both systolic and diastolic levels may increase. Additionally, fasting glucose and HbA1c tests help detect declining insulin sensitivity, while inflammatory markers such as hsCRP provide insights into cardiovascular inflammation.
However, these tests are not widely accessible or routinely offered unless women proactively research, request, and advocate for them or receive care from a specialised menopause clinic. As a result, many remain unaware of potential cardiovascular risks during the perimenopause stage.
Navigating Menopause
Menopause marks a significant biological transition in a woman’s life, characterised by dramatic hormonal shifts. Estrogen levels drop sharply, falling to less than 10 pg/mL, while progesterone production declines and stabilises at consistently low levels. In contrast, testosterone levels may remain stable or even rise slightly, leading to individual variations in symptoms. Additionally, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels increase, signaling the end of ovarian function.
These hormonal changes typically unfold over a three to four-year period surrounding the final menstrual cycle, impacting multiple aspects of health and well-being.
Long-Term Health Implications of Menopause
The loss of estrogen’s protective effects brings several long-term health risks for women that extend beyond the immediate symptoms of menopause:
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.
- There is a higher likelihood of developing osteoporosis and related fractures.
- Greater risk of cognitive decline and mood disorders.
- Bladder issues and potential impact on sexual health and function.
Essential Preventative Screenings for Menopausal Women
Routine screenings during menopause are important for maintaining long-term health, yet many of these tests are not routinely offered, leaving women to advocate for their care. Without standardised guidance, many women find themselves navigating this phase alone, often unaware of the screenings they could be requesting.
Hormone Panel Testing
A comprehensive hormone panel can provide valuable insight into menopausal health by assessing:
- Estradiol levels, which drop significantly post-menopause.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which indicate ovarian function decline.
- Thyroid function, as imbalances can mimic menopausal symptoms.
- DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) and testosterone, which impact energy, mood and metabolism.
Despite their importance, hormone panels are not routinely offered, leaving women without clear markers of their hormonal health.
Osteoporosis Screening
With women losing about 1% of bone density annually after menopause, DEXA scans are essential for the early detection of osteoporosis. However, many are not referred for scans unless they have an existing fracture or severe risk factors, delaying intervention until bone loss has already occurred.
Heart Health Assessments
Menopause significantly increases cardiovascular risk, yet heart health screenings are often overlooked. In an ideal world, women should have access to:
- Comprehensive lipid panels to monitor cholesterol changes.
- Blood pressure checks, as hypertension risk rises post-menopause.
- Fasting glucose and HbA1c tests are also useful since declining estrogen affects insulin sensitivity.
- Inflammatory markers such as hsCRP help assess cardiovascular disease risk.
Without proactive screening, many women remain unaware of their growing heart disease risk until symptoms become severe.
Cancer Screenings (Breast, Ovarian, Endometrial)
Menopausal women remain at risk for hormone-sensitive cancers, making regular screenings essential for early detection and prevention. Mammograms play a crucial role in identifying breast cancer, while pelvic exams and Pap tests help detect cervical and endometrial cancers. Since ovarian cancer lacks routine screening, women at higher risk should discuss potential testing options with their healthcare provider.
The Need for Proactive Advocacy in Preventative Health Screenings
Despite the clear necessity of these screenings, menopausal women frequently find themselves fighting for proper care, as many of these tests are not routinely offered through standard healthcare pathways. Without widespread medical acknowledgment of menopause’s long-term effects, many women struggle alone, seeking private testing or self-researching solutions to safeguard their health. Raising awareness and pushing for comprehensive menopausal care is essential to ensuring that women receive the screenings they need at this stage of life.
The Importance of Private Preventative Health Screenings
While standard health screenings play a crucial role in detecting medical conditions, they can have significant limitations. Many tests may miss early-stage diseases, fail to provide a complete picture of an individual’s health, or produce false positives or negatives, leading to anxiety and missed diagnoses.
The comprehensive Preventative Health Assessments offered by Echelon Health go beyond routine check-ups, offering a more detailed and proactive approach to healthcare. They enable the early detection of potential issues, allowing for timely intervention and the prevention of chronic conditions. Personalised evaluations tailored to an individual’s health profile and risk factors ensure more targeted and effective management and greater control over their long-term health.
Improved Treatment Outcomes
Early disease detection significantly enhances treatment success rates and survival outcomes. By identifying health issues at treatable stages, early detection expands treatment options, enabling less invasive and more effective approaches. For instance, breast cancer survival rates in the UK reach 85% with early detection. Early diagnosis also reduces disease progression by allowing timely interventions before complications arise, particularly for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or dementia.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Early detection and intervention significantly improve patients’ overall quality of life. By addressing health problems before they progress into severe stages, early detection helps patients maintain daily activities and manage chronic diseases effectively. This proactive approach allows patients to have greater control over their health, leading to a more fulfilling life.
Cost-Effectiveness of Preventative Care
Studies show that early detection of diseases can reduce treatment costs by up to 60.6% compared to late-stage diagnoses, significantly lowering future medical expenses by reducing the need for intensive treatments. Identifying conditions early also helps shorten hospital stays and decrease their frequency, resulting in substantial cost savings for both patients and the healthcare system.
Introducing the Cullinan Assessment by Echelon Health
The Cullinan Assessment is a comprehensive health evaluation designed specifically for women’s unique health needs, offering an in-depth and holistic approach to the early detection of diseases. Recognising the significant gap in women’s healthcare, Echelon Health developed this assessment for women aged 40 and above to ensure they receive thorough, proactive screenings tailored to their specific health risks.
A Complete Approach to Women’s Health Screening
The Cullinan Assessment includes a wide range of screenings:
- Digital mammography for breast health.
- CT coronary angiogram for heart health.
- Transvaginal ultrasound for reproductive organ health.
- Full body mole check for skin cancer prevention.
- Comprehensive blood tests and hormonal profile.
- Bone density scan for osteoporosis risk assessment.
Advanced Imaging and Diagnostic Techniques
The assessment utilises state-of-the-art imaging technologies:
- 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) for more detailed breast tissue imaging.
- MRI for high-sensitivity detection of breast abnormalities.
- CT scanning for detailed imaging of various body systems.
A Proactive Approach to Women’s Preventive Health
The Cullinan Assessment provides a bespoke and proactive approach to women’s health screening, ensuring a more individualised and thorough evaluation than standard health check-ups. Unlike one-size-fits-all screenings, this assessment tailors screening schedules based on each woman’s specific risk factors, considering elements such as age, lifestyle, genetic predispositions and medical history.
In addition to identifying potential health risks, The Cullinan Assessment offers personalised recommendations for lifestyle modifications, empowering women to make informed choices that support their long-term well-being.
Personalised Health Insights
A detailed analysis of medical history and family health background is a key component of The Cullinan Assessment, allowing world-class medical experts to pinpoint risks that might otherwise go unnoticed in routine screenings. The findings from these comprehensive evaluations are compiled into a thorough medical report, including diagnostic insights, expert recommendations and next steps for prevention or intervention.
By offering this in-depth and highly personalised approach, The Cullinan Assessment aims to bridge the gap in women’s healthcare, addressing the unique health challenges women face at different stages of their lives and ensuring they receive the care they deserve.
Your Health Deserves The Best
Take charge of your health by moving beyond routine check-ups and prioritising early detection and prevention for a healthier future.
Don’t leave your health to chance. The Cullinan Assessment includes a chauffeur-driven transfer, an overnight stay at a luxury hotel and a relaxing massage, creating a holistic experience that prioritises your health and well-being.
Making World-Class Healthcare Accessible
We recognise that financial barriers can sometimes prevent individuals from accessing high-quality healthcare. That is why we offer flexible finance options, ensuring that our comprehensive preventive Health Assessment Packages remain accessible.
How to Book Your Assessment
- Visit Our Website: Explore our full range of Preventative Health Assessment Packages tailored to your unique health needs.
- Contact Us: Speak directly with our Head of Private Clients for a confidential consultation.
- WhatsApp: Start a private conversation with us instantly via WhatsApp.
Our dedicated team is available to address your questions, assist you with the booking process and support you in taking proactive steps towards a healthier future.
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Sources:
https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/10/women-health-gap-healthcare-gender
https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/perimenopause-rocky-road-to-menopause
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK607719
https://www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk/the-gender-health-gap-shocking-statistics-you-need-to-know
https://initiatives.weforum.org/global-alliance-for-womens-health/home
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3018605
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/menopause-and-osteoporosis
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/age-and-fertility
