Empowering women to put their health first this International Women’s Day: An Interview with Dr Salina Berhane

International Women's Day (8 March) offers us a good reminder of the strength, resilience, and achievements of women around the world. While we celebrate these accomplishments, it’s also important to focus on empowering women to prioritise their own physical and mental health and wellbeing, something that can easily become neglected when daily life takes over! At Unilabs, we want to empower women to better understand their health needs, so that they can live their best lives. To do this, we spoke to Dr Salina Berhane M.D, Head of Breast Radiology, Unilabs Sweden, about the latest advancements and watchouts in women’s health and the helpful tests women wanting to proactively manage their health can request from their healthcare providers.

What are some of the most exciting developments in women’s health?

One of the most exciting advancements in women’s health is the use of AI in breast imaging. Results from the MASAI trial (Mammography Screening with Artificial Intelligence) lead by Unilabs’ breast radiologist, Kristina Lång, in partnership with Lund University, has shown that AI-supported breast screening can improve breast cancer detection by 29%. 

Another major development lies in personalised medicine and genetic testing. Women who are at high risk for breast and ovarian cancer can now undergo BRCA genetic testing, which healthcare professionals can use to guide personalised screening and preventative strategies.

When it comes to hormonal health, new research is offering women better options for managing perimenopause and menopause. The introduction of non-hormonal treatments and improved diagnostic tools is allowing women to make more informed choices about their health.

What are some of the biggest health-related issues women should be watching out for?

While breast and cervical cancers are well-known risks, many women are unaware that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women. Historically, heart disease has been studied mainly in men, but we now understand that symptoms present differently in women. Women often experience subtle heart attack symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath, rather than the classic chest pain. Because of this, heart disease in women is frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked. Understanding these differences will lead to better awareness and earlier intervention.

Another health concern women should be looking to prevent is osteoporosis, particularly after menopause. Women lose bone density at a faster rate than men, which increases the risk of fractures. Preventative screening with bone density scans can help women to take proactive steps to maintain bone health. These measures include maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, which includes resistance training, as well as a balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium and vitamin d.

Hormonal imbalances also pose significant challenges. Conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), thyroid disorders, and perimenopause-related hormone fluctuations can have a major impact on a woman’s overall wellbeing, but they are often dismissed or underdiagnosed.

Lastly, mental health remains a critical issue. Women are more likely than men to experience anxiety and depression, particularly during hormonal transitions, such as postpartum and menopause. Addressing mental health proactively is just as important as physical health.

What steps can women take to safeguard their health at different stages in life? 

Taking proactive steps at each stage of life can make a significant difference to long-term health outcomes.

• In your 20s and 30s: Women should prioritise routine cervical screenings, including Pap smears and HPV tests, to prevent cervical cancer. Additionally, fertility health checks - such as AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) testing - can provide insights for those considering pregnancy in the future.
• In your 40s and 50s: This is a crucial time for breast cancer screening. Mammograms should be performed regularly, and Unilabs will soon offer AI-assisted mammography in some markets to enhance accuracy. Cardiovascular screenings, including cholesterol and blood pressure checks, are also essential at this stage.
• In your 60s and beyond: Women should continue with mammography and colorectal cancer screening. Additionally, bone density tests help to detect osteoporosis early, so that preventive measures can be taken.

Unilabs provides comprehensive women’s health screening panels, covering these crucial screenings at different life stages.

Why is screening so important, especially for breast and cervical cancer?

Screening is one of the most powerful tools for early detection and prevention. Mammograms help to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, often before any symptoms appear, significantly improving survival rates. With advancements in imaging technology, including AI-assisted mammograms, screening is now more precise than ever.

Similarly, cervical cancer screening through Pap smears and HPV testing allows for the early identification of precancerous changes in cervical cells. When detected early, cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.

Women should take advantage of these screenings to protect their health, and Unilabs offers high-quality diagnostic services to ensure accurate results.

What are some of the tests women can ask for to test for these health issues? 

There are several key tests that can provide valuable insight into a woman’s health:

• Hormonal health panels to assess oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, LH, FSH and thyroid function.
• Cardiovascular risk assessments, including cholesterol and glucose testing for diabetes prevention.
• Vitamin and mineral panels, particularly Vitamin D and iron levels, which are commonly low in women.
• Genetic screening for inherited cancer risks, such as BRCA testing for breast and ovarian cancer.

Unilabs provides comprehensive diagnostic panels, allowing women to monitor these key health markers effectively.

Are there specific tests women wanting to test for perimenopause and menopause can request?

Yes, several tests can help women to understand their hormonal status during perimenopause. These include:

• FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone) tests to assess ovarian function.
• Estradiol and progesterone levels to monitor hormonal fluctuations.
• Thyroid function tests to rule out conditions like hypothyroidism, which can mimic perimenopausal symptoms.

Understanding these levels can help women and their doctors to make informed decisions about lifestyle adjustments and potential treatments.

What advice do you give to your female friends and family about how to advocate for their health?

The most important thing women can do is to trust their instincts and advocate for themselves in medical settings. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up and seek a second opinion if necessary.

I always encourage the women in my life to:

• Stay informed about their health, including tracking symptoms and keeping up with screenings.
• Ask for specific tests, don’t be afraid to request additional screenings if they have concerns.
• Prioritise their mental health, as stress and anxiety can impact overall wellbeing.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, focusing on balanced nutrition, exercise, and sleep.

Ultimately, knowledge is power. Women who are proactive about their health have the best chance of preventing disease and living long, healthy lives.