Medical experts have called on Nigerian women to take charge of their health by embracing regular medical testing, stressing that early detection is vital for preventing complications and ensuring healthy living at every stage of life.
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At the SYNLAB Nigeria Women’s Health Webinar, Consultant Gynecologist, Dr. Waliyat Jolayemi, and Consultant Lifestyle Physician, Dr. Eniola Afolabi-Obe, emphasized that many reproductive and hormonal conditions often go undetected due to stigma, ignorance, or lack of access to diagnostic services.
‎Dr. Jolayemi noted that conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances can silently affect women’s health. She warned that common symptoms—such as irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, weight fluctuations, and fertility challenges—are too often dismissed as “normal.”
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“Diagnostic tests are pivotal in early detection, screening, and management of various medical conditions. Most of the ill-health that remains hidden does so because of a lack of early symptoms,” she explained.
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Speaking on women’s midlife health, Dr. Afolabi-Obe highlighted the risks associated with perimenopause and menopause, which may begin as early as the mid-30s. She pointed out that hormonal changes at this stage can affect energy, sleep, mood, cognition, and increase vulnerability to osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.
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“More than one billion women worldwide are currently in their menopausal transition or postmenopausal stage. Sadly, many approach it underprepared, with some never discussing it with a healthcare provider,” she said. She advised women to undergo preventive tests such as bone density scans, cholesterol checks, mammograms, pap smears, and hormone panels.
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Both experts agreed that lifestyle adjustments—including proper nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and quality sleep—should complement medical testing to protect women’s long-term well-being. They urged Nigerian women not to normalize abnormalities but to be proactive in tracking their health, seeking medical advice, and using available diagnostic tools.
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SYNLAB Nigeria, a member of the global SYNLAB Group with operations in 33 countries, hosted the event as part of its mission to promote preventive healthcare. With over 30 active locations across Nigeria, the organization has been ISO 15189 certified since 2006 and remains a leader in medical diagnostic services, offering innovative and reliable solutions to individuals, hospitals, and governments