Women are often at a higher risk for developing certain health problems than men. The health of women can be significantly impacted by a range of factors including the environment, diet, and lifestyle. If as a woman you want to keep your health in check, you’ll want to learn about the 10 most common health risks in women.
1. Heart disease
The leading cause of death in women is heart disease. Chest pain, shortness of breath, and arm weakness are all symptoms of a heart attack. Shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting are also common in women. Women, on the other hand, may misdiagnose their symptoms as heart attack and dismiss them as excessive exercise or heartburn. While menopause does not cause heart disease, certain risk factors, such as higher blood pressure, cholesterol, and lower estrogen, become more common after menopause. (Source)
Also Read: All About Heart Attack: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
2. Diabetes
Women are also more prone to diabetes complications like blindness, kidney disease, and depression. Gestational diabetes is a condition that can develop during pregnancy in which your glucose levels rise and other complications arise. This affects at least three out of every hundred women, and treatment may include a strict diet, exercise, blood glucose monitoring, insulin injections, and oral medication.
Also Read: Understanding Diabetes: What is Diabetes? Types, Causes, Symptoms, Management
3. Cancer
Breast, colorectal, endometrial, lung, cervical, skin, and ovarian cancers are among the most common cancers in women. According to the most recent global statistics, approximately half a million women die each year from cervical cancer and half a million from breast cancer. Cancer treatment consists of using surgery, radiation, medications, and other therapies to cure, shrink, or stop the progression of cancer.
There are numerous cancer treatments available. Depending on your specific situation, you may receive one treatment or a combination of treatments.
4. Reproductive Health, One of the Major Health Problems of Women of All Ages
Sexual and reproductive health issues account for one-third of all health problems among women aged 15 to 44. Unsafe sex is a major risk factor, particularly among developing-country women and girls. This is why it is critical to provide services to the 222 million women who do not have access to contraception.
Also Read: Understanding PCOS In Women: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment
5. Urinary Tract Infections, One of the Most Common Health Risks in Women
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) happen when germs enter the urethra and multiply. They are more common in women because they have a shorter urethra than men. This reduces the distance bacteria must travel to reach the bladder. A UTI is characterized by frequent urination, pain or burning when urinating, and cloudy urine. While a UTI may resolve on its own, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if necessary. If UTIs become a recurring issue, other tests can determine whether the urinary tract is normal.
6. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes your bones to weaken, making them brittle. Postmenopausal women are at a higher risk of osteoporotic fractures. Certain medications, early menopause, a low body mass index (BMI), cancer treatment, and genetics are all risk factors. You can reduce your risk by increasing your calcium intake, staying active with weight-bearing exercises, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
7. Maternal health issues
The changes a woman goes through during pregnancy can have an impact on her health, from iron deficiency anemia to high blood pressure. During pregnancy, it’s recommended that women should get adequate nutrition and take preventive measures such as immunizations. They may continue to exercise as usual, but if you have any concerns, consult your doctor.
Also Read: Understanding All About Fibroids – A Health Problem in Women
8. Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of brain degeneration in which abnormal particles in the brain known as neurofibrillary tangles and plaques form and destroy healthy brain cells. Staying active and eating a healthy diet are two healthy lifestyle choices that can help promote optimal brain health.
9. Eating Disorders
Eating disorders affect millions of men and women, but women account for the vast majority of those diagnosed. Females account for approximately 85 percent of all people suffering from anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Eating disorders are both psychological and physical illnesses. The likelihood of developing an eating disorder is influenced by culture, family history, stress, and genes.
10. Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when the endometrium, which normally grows inside the uterus, spreads to other parts of the body. It can grow in the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and bladder, causing severe pain. Endometriosis is typically treated with pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, fertility treatments, surgery, or hormonal drugs such as birth control.
For all the common health risks in women and health problems of women, check health articles and topics on Women Care on Health Views.
