Year: 2026

The medical field is ever-changing, with new technologies, tests, and studies emerging every day that help us evolve and grow in our practice. Cancer is a leading cause of death in the country, and unfortunately, you cannot prevent that type of disease. You can, however, schedule regular screenings for many kinds of cancer to detect them early. Catching cancer in its early stages can give you the best chance to beat it, which is why it is so important to stay up to date on your doctor’s visits and screenings. Keep reading to learn more about different kinds of cancers, screenings, and what they entail.

Breast Cancer

The most diagnosed cancer in women is breast cancer. Even so, when it is caught in early stages, breast cancer has an extremely successful survival rate. For women at average risk, screenings such as mammograms are recommended annually from ages 45 to 74. Women who have a family history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or who have other risks may need breast cancer screenings earlier in life, or more frequently than others. With regular screenings, you can catch any slight changes, detect cancer early, and have better treatment options. Screenings can include mammography, where detailed X-rays are taken of the breast tissue to detect cancer, or breast exams, where you visually inspect your breasts, as well as feel for any changes. Everyone’s breast tissue is different, so knowing what is normal for you can help you to identify when something has changed. Greenville Women’s Care provides 2D and 3D mammography, in which images of the breast tissue are taken from various angles. Speak with your provider about the best course of action and be proactive in your health screenings.

Cervical Cancer

Beginning at the age of 21, women should begin getting regular pap smears, whether they have been sexually active or not. Depending on your situation and previous test results, you may need a Pap smear every 1–3 years. A pap smear screening is when your doctor collects cells from your cervix to check for any abnormalities or changes. In most cases, cervical cancer is usually caused by HPV. You should also receive regular HPV tests between the ages of 30 and 65, usually every 5 years. Like other cancers, breast cancer screenings are key to detecting problems early and enabling more efficient treatment. Speak with your doctor about the screenings and tests that may be right for you, and other ways to prevent HPV.

Colorectal Cancer

Recently, there has been an increase in colorectal cancer in patients younger than 50. To protect yourself and catch colorectal issues early, the recommended screening is a colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, a camera is inserted into the colon to check for cancer or abnormal growths. You should begin getting a colonoscopy at age 45, and those at normal risk should schedule one every 10 years. For those who have gastrointestinal diseases, a family history of colorectal cancer, or have had abnormal results from a previous colorectal screening, your doctor may recommend starting your colorectal screenings at an earlier age or having them more frequently. Oftentimes, there are not many symptoms in the early stages of colorectal cancer, so screenings are crucial to catch any issues early on.

Lung Cancer

Though a lung cancer screening is not recommended for most people, it is suggested and available for anyone who smokes or has a history of smoking. The best way to be proactive when it comes to lung cancer is to quit smoking, but a low-dose CT screening also helps to detect any abnormalities in the lungs using a small dose of radiation. The earlier cancer is detected, the better your chances of successful treatment. If you are between 50 and 80, currently smoke, or have a history of smoking, lung cancer screening may be the right choice for you. We encourage you to talk with your provider about your options and whether a lung cancer screening may be beneficial.

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is extremely common and can usually be treated in its early stages. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 Americans will have skin cancer at some point in their life. When caught early, it can often be treated with minor surgery and generally does not affect your overall health, but at later stages, it can be more dangerous. Because you know your skin best, self-exams are a huge part of catching skin cancer. Check your body and moles – if they are asymmetrical, have an irregular border, are of various colors, or change in size, you should schedule an appointment to see your dermatologist. Individuals with many moles, fair skin, or a family or personal history of skin cancer may need more frequent skin exams or dermatological visits.

Greenville Women’s Care provides breast and cervical cancer screenings along with helpful information and support. Our providers are skilled at walking you through each screening, so you know exactly what to expect. We are here to answer your questions, give you peace of mind, and address any concerns you may have. Schedule your next screening with us today – it could save your life.

Endometriosis, like many women’s health issues, is surrounded by myths about its causes, effects, and treatments. Misinformation leads to confusion, and some may not realize they have endometriosis. This month, we’re here to clear up these myths and share reliable information.

Myth 1: Pain during your period is completely normal.

Many women have some pain, cramps, or nausea during their periods, but severe pain is not normal. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside it, causing inflammation, scarring, and pain. While periods can be uncomfortable, intense pain should be checked by a provider. Talk to your provider about your symptoms to determine what’s normal or may need treatment.

Myth 2: Endometriosis is always painful.

Some women with endometriosis have no unusual symptoms. Even those with light or irregular periods can have the condition. While endometriosis can be painful, it doesn’t always cause discomfort and may go undiagnosed for years. It can also affect other parts of the body, so pain isn’t always a sign.

Myth 3: Endometriosis cannot be prevented or treated.

You can’t completely prevent endometriosis, but healthy habits that lower estrogen may slow its growth. If you’ve been diagnosed, treatment options are available, though they may not always be straightforward or fully effective. Be open with your provider about your symptoms so they can find the best solutions. Treatments may include minimally invasive surgery, medication, hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination.

Myth 4: Endometriosis only affects older women.

People once believed endometriosis affected only women in their 30s and 40s, but it’s common in teenagers, too. You may be more likely to develop endometriosis if it runs in your family, if you started your period before 11, have heavy periods, or have cycles shorter than 27 days. Some girls notice symptoms as soon as menstruation begins.

Myth 5: If you have endometriosis, you cannot get pregnant.

This is one of the most common myths. It was once believed that endometriosis caused infertility, but that’s not true for everyone. About half of women with endometriosis may have trouble getting pregnant, but it’s still possible. You might need extra help. If you have endometriosis and are struggling to conceive, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Sometimes surgery or laparoscopy is needed to remove tissue; if those don’t work, there are other options. If you’re planning a baby, we recommend speaking with your provider.

At Greenville Women’s Care, we’re dedicated to providing every patient with the best possible care. We understand that it can be hard to make sense of changes or new symptoms in your body. We’re here to listen, offer solutions, and support you. If you’re dealing with endometriosis symptoms, we can help. Call Greenville Women’s Care at 252-757-3131 to schedule an appointment.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, but many people don’t know it affects women differently than men. Learning about these differences can help protect your health.

Distinctive Risk Factors for Women

In addition to common risks like smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, and high blood pressure, women face some unique challenges. Pregnancy complications, early menopause, autoimmune diseases, breast cancer treatments, and family history can all increase risk. Talk with your doctor about each of these factors.

Pregnancy-Related Conditions

If you experienced preeclampsia, high blood pressure, or gestational diabetes during pregnancy, these are not just temporary issues. They signal a higher risk for future heart problems, diabetes, and ongoing high blood pressure. Be sure to share your pregnancy history with your doctor.

Diabetes

Many women are surprised to learn that diabetes affects women’s hearts more severely than men’s. You might even have a heart attack without the usual warning signs. Managing your blood sugar is essential for your heart health.

Premature Menopause

Going through menopause before age 40 is more serious than it may seem. Losing estrogen’s protective effects earlier makes your heart vulnerable sooner. Even typical menopause increases risk. Talk to your doctor about your heart health.

Autoimmune Diseases

Lupus, scleroderma, and other autoimmune diseases affect more than your immune system. They can also harm your heart by causing inflammation and damaging arteries. This means your heart needs extra care.

If you have survived breast cancer, that is a major achievement. However, treatments like radiation and some chemotherapy drugs can increase your risk of heart problems. Include heart health in your ongoing care plan.

Family History

If heart disease is common in your family, especially if relatives developed it at a young age, your risk is higher than a man with the same family history. Tell your doctor about this, as it may mean you need earlier screening and stronger prevention.

Beyond Classic Symptoms: Recognizing Heart Disease in Women

Heart attack symptoms in women are often different from what is shown in movies. Instead of dramatic chest pain, you might feel very tired, nauseous, or short of breath. Indigestion or jaw pain can also be signs. These subtle symptoms are often overlooked, so pay attention to how you feel.

·         Unusual fatigue or weakness

·         Shortness of breath

·         Indigestion or heartburn

·         Back, jaw, or neck pain

·         Dizziness or lightheadedness

·         Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

·         Anxiety or a sense of impending doom

Even if your symptoms are mild, speak up about them. If you notice something unusual and have risk factors, ask your doctor for thorough testing. Trust your instincts about your own health.

Empowering Women to Advocate for Heart Health

Take care of your heart by learning your personal risk factors and watching for symptoms. Talk openly with your doctor, eat healthy foods, stay active, manage stress, and keep up with regular checkups.

The more you know about how heart disease affects women, the better you can protect your health.