Top 5 Women’s Health Issues

Most women admit that they spend little time nurturing themselves, even when doing so would benefit their physical and mental health. In order to raise awareness, this blog will cover the top five women’s health issues, along with practical tips.

#1. Heart Disease & Stroke

An alarming new study published by the Journal of the American Heart Association finds that women may not be aware of the symptoms that indicate cardiac arrest, nor if they are at risk. The study also found that heart disease among women is often underdiagnosed and undertreated, highlighting it as a significant women’s health issue. What is more concerning is that healthcare providers often dismiss warning signs. This is especially true for women of color, who typically wait longer to see a physician.

How Can You Lower The Risk Of Heart Disease?

Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Weakness in the arms
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and lower estrogen (menopause) increase the risk of heart problems. Be mindful of these symptoms and notify your doctor’s office if you are experiencing anything unusual. It could protect your life.

• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle, and make it a point to stay active.
• Choose heart-healthy wholesome foods.
• Schedule regular health checks with your doctor

#2. Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women, second to skin cancer. Data from the American Cancer Society reveals that the average risk for a woman in the United States is about 13%.

How Do You Reduce The Risks Of Breast Cancer?

Monthly self–examination for abnormal lumps and changes in your breast should be a regular practice. Inform your doctor immediately of any abnormal changes to your breasts or nipples, and schedule an appointment for a thorough checkup.

• Reduce alcohol intake, and quit smoking.
• Stay physically active
• Reach for vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. Include antioxidant-rich fruits such as berries.
• Schedule a yearly mammogram

#3. Gynecological Issues

PCOS, birth control, and menopause are common for women, while the riskiest are ovarian and cervical cancers. Ovarian cancers are often unknown until they spread outside the ovaries. This is because they show no symptoms. Cervical cancers, on the other hand, are brought on by abnormal cell growth. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent risk factor.

How Can You Lower The Risk?

Schedule annual health checkups with your gynecologist. The periodic health check includes OBGYN procedures such as a pelvic exam, breast exam, pap smear test, or ultrasound which may help determine the risks for both cancers. Most insurances cover these exams.

• If you are overweight, changes can be made to achieve the ideal body range for your height.
• Avoid other risky habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and processed food consumption.

#4. Osteoporosis

Although postmenopausal women are more prone to this bone-weakening disease, factors such as genetics, early menopause, unhealthy habits, certain medications, and more can make you more susceptible to weak bones, highlighting the complexity of this women’s health issues.

How Can You Lower The Risk?

Start weight-bearing exercises: Exercises such as low-impact aerobics, dancing, yoga, and weight/strength training, helps to rebuild bones.

Include calcium-rich foods: If you are trying to avoid weight gain, plenty of non-dairy calcium-rich sources such as kale, spinach, sesame seeds, and soy products can help to improve your dietary calcium intake.

#5. Depression

Research shows that depression is two times more likely to affect women than men. Women may develop depression during different phases of the reproductive cycle. One of them is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). This condition causes anxiety and depression the week or two weeks prior to the start of a period before subsiding once it starts. Other phases include pregnancy-induced depression, postpartum depression, and menopausal depression. Other events, such as infertility, miscarriage, and oral contraceptives, can also lead to depression.

How Can You Lower The Risk of Women’s Health Issues?

• Staying physically active
• Light therapy and nature walks
• A wholesome, healthy diet that includes folate and omega-3 fats.
• Joining a health club or volunteering for a cause

You may have noticed that staying physically active is a consistent risk-reducing factor among the issues above. Getting physically active and staying motivated with a group of like-minded individuals is easier than ever. LVAC not only offers exclusive training areas for women but a plethora of exercise classes and amenities. Pick a class that matches your schedule and tackle the major women’s health issues of 2024.

Check out our group fitness classes HERE.