With Some Women Skipping Screenings, Mountainview Highlights the Importance of Women’s Health

5/1/2024

LAS CRUCES, NM, May 1, 2024 – Preventative care is vital to patient health, allowing providers to catch problems early on, before they develop into larger, sometimes life-threatening, issues. However, many women put off or avoid getting important screenings.

Preventive care recommendations for women vary with age but can include regular screening for breast cancer and cervical cancer, immunizations, and physical exams. Women may also be at a greater risk for certain disorders, such as autoimmune disease or insomnia. Additionally, cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, but only 44 percent of women recognize it as their greatest threat, according to the American Heart Association.

“Studies show that 50% of women skipped preventative healthcare last year, but those screenings are crucial,” said Dr. Elma Gutierrez, chief of staff and OB/GYN at MountainView Regional Medical Center. “Through proactive healthcare, we can better diagnose conditions early, when they’re the most treatable.”

National Women’s Health Week, May 12-18, is a chance to highlight the importance of healthcare for women of all ages. This observance stemmed from disparities in care for women and women’s tendency to prioritize family and career, even if their health fell by the wayside. However, it’s important that women be proactive about their health.

In May, MountainView wants to help women be the picture of health through Keep Your Selfie Healthy: A Women’s Health Week Challenge email series.

Starting May 13, MountainView will provide seven daily emails about women’s health issues, including menopause, heart disease, and the prevalence of autoimmune, pelvic floor, and sleep disorders. The series is intended to help women focus on “their selfies.”

“Prioritizing screenings is essential because healthy women are better equipped to pursue their goals, contribute to their communities, and enjoy longer, fuller lives,” Gutierrez said. “Women often play central roles in our lives, and we want our mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends to be healthy for years to come.”

To Keep Your Selfie Healthy, sign up at www.MountainViewRegional.com/womens-health-series. We’ll also be giving away prizes every day, including an at-home spa package, a Fitbit Versa 2 and a Kindle Paperwhite.

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