Health Guidance & Preventive Screening
Based on published international guidelines — not a substitute for a personal consultation with Dr Kabiye.
This page provides general health information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Screening recommendations depend on your personal health history. Always consult Dr Kabiye or your physician before making any health decision. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
What to Screen For — and When
Based on American Cancer Society, USPSTF, and international surgical guidelines. Your personal history may warrant different intervals — discuss with Dr Kabiye.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colonoscopy is recommended from age 45 for average-risk adults (ACS/USPSTF 2021). If normal, repeat every 10 years. Screening begins earlier and is performed more frequently if you have a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer or polyps.
An annual FIT (faecal immunochemical test) is an acceptable alternative for average-risk individuals who prefer non-invasive screening. A positive FIT requires follow-up colonoscopy.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
- Persistent change in bowel habit (constipation or diarrhoea lasting more than 3 weeks)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain that persists or wakes you at night
Breast Health
Annual clinical breast examination is recommended for all adult women. Discuss mammography from age 40 with your doctor — the decision depends on your personal risk profile, preferences, and family history.
Patients with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer or known BRCA gene variants should discuss earlier and more intensive screening options with Dr Kabiye. Breast self-awareness (knowing how your breasts normally look and feel) is encouraged.
- Any new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
- Skin changes — dimpling, redness, or puckering
- Nipple discharge (especially if bloodstained or spontaneous)
- Change in the shape or size of the breast
Upper GI & Oesophagus
Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) is indicated for patients with:
- Persistent acid reflux or heartburn not responding to treatment
- Difficulty or pain on swallowing (dysphagia)
- Unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia
- Persistent epigastric (upper abdominal) pain
H. pylori infection: Test and treat is recommended for patients with peptic ulcer symptoms. Eradication reduces the risk of ulcer recurrence and gastric cancer.
Screening upper endoscopy is not recommended for asymptomatic adults with no risk factors. Endoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic tool — it is arranged when clinically indicated.
Gallbladder & Biliary
An abdominal ultrasound is the first-line investigation for suspected gallbladder disease. Consider assessment if you experience right upper quadrant pain, nausea or discomfort after fatty meals, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Risk factors for gallstone disease include: obesity, rapid weight loss, diabetes, female sex, advancing age, and certain ethnic backgrounds (including Caribbean populations). Gallstones found incidentally on imaging should be discussed with Dr Kabiye to determine whether watchful waiting or treatment is appropriate.
- Severe, constant upper abdominal or right-sided pain lasting more than a few hours
- Fever with abdominal pain (possible infection — cholecystitis or cholangitis)
- New onset jaundice with pain or fever
Thyroid
There is no recommendation for universal population screening for thyroid disease. A TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) blood test is appropriate if you experience:
- Unexplained fatigue or weight change (loss or gain)
- Visible or palpable neck swelling
- Temperature intolerance (feeling excessively hot or cold)
- Family history of thyroid disease
- Palpitations or tremor
Neck lumps — any new or growing lump in the neck should be assessed promptly. Further investigation may include ultrasound, fine needle aspiration (FNA), or surgical excision. Dr Kabiye performs thyroid and parathyroid surgery and can guide you through the full pathway.
Diabetes & Metabolic Health
Annual screening with HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, and a full lipid profile is recommended for all adults with risk factors, including: obesity, hypertension, family history of diabetes, and Caribbean heritage (higher population prevalence).
- Diabetic foot examination — annually for all patients with established diabetes
- BMI and blood pressure check — at every GP visit
- Eye (retinal) examination and urine microalbumin test annually for diabetes patients
Dr Kabiye's team offers a dedicated diabetic foot clinic. Early intervention significantly reduces the risk of serious complications. Do not wait for a wound to deteriorate before seeking review.
Hernia
Groin (inguinal or femoral) or abdominal wall bulges that appear on straining or standing should be assessed. Not all hernias require immediate surgery — the decision depends on your symptoms, size, and overall health.
Risk factors include: heavy lifting, chronic cough (e.g. smokers), obesity, chronic constipation, previous abdominal surgery, and advancing age.
- A hernia cannot be pushed back in (irreducible or "stuck")
- The hernia becomes hard, tender, red, or discoloured
- You develop vomiting or inability to pass wind alongside a new or worsening hernia
A strangulated hernia is a surgical emergency — call 911 or attend the emergency department without delay.
Post-operative Follow-up
All patients who have undergone surgery with Dr Kabiye should attend their scheduled post-operative review appointment as arranged at discharge. These appointments are important for monitoring healing, reviewing pathology results, and planning ongoing care.
Do not wait for your scheduled appointment if you develop any of the following:
- Fever above 38°C / 100.4°F
- Increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge at the wound site
- Increasing pain or pain not controlled by prescribed analgesia
- Nausea, vomiting, or inability to eat after the first 48 hours
- Swollen, painful, or red leg (possible clot)
Contact the practice or attend the emergency department if you are concerned. Our team would always rather hear from you early.
Small habits, long-term health.
Evidence-based lifestyle steps that make a real difference.
High-fibre diet: vegetables, legumes, wholegrains, and local fruits. Limit processed meats and ultra-processed foods. Caribbean produce — dasheen, breadfruit, christophene, plantain, callaloo — are all excellent sources of fibre and nutrients.
150 minutes of moderate activity per week (brisk walking, swimming, cycling). Regular physical activity reduces colorectal cancer, gallstone, and metabolic disease risk. Start gradually and build steadily.
Blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, and cholesterol. Know your baselines. Track changes over time. Bring results to every appointment so your doctors can see trends, not just single readings.
Avoid smoking — it raises oesophageal and colorectal cancer risk significantly. Limit alcohol intake. Maintain a healthy weight. Small, consistent changes compound into meaningful long-term health improvements.
Many surgical conditions are far simpler to treat when caught early. A lump, bleed, or persistent pain that lasts for more than 2–3 weeks deserves a medical review. Waiting rarely makes things better.
Write down your symptoms before your visit — when they started, how they have changed, what makes them better or worse. Bring all medications. Bring prior test results. Ask questions. You deserve clear answers.
Ready to book a screening?
Dr Kabiye and the Amise Medical Services team are here to guide you. Whether you need a routine colonoscopy, a breast clinic appointment, or specialist advice, we will ensure you receive timely, expert care.