Stay Ahead and Stay Healthy by Exploring Women’s Health

This Mother’s Day (May 12th) marks the beginning of National Women’s Health week – a time to highlight women’s health issues and encourage women of all ages to prioritize their overall well-being.

The 2024 Theme is Empowering Women, Cultivating Health: Celebrating Voices, Wellness, and Resilience. Let’s mark this occasion by looking at some of the most common health issues faced by women around the world.

  1. Reproductive Health – This encompasses a range of issues including menstruation, fertility, contraception, and menopause. Ensuring access to reproductive healthcare and education remains crucial for women’s health, addressing their diverse needs throughout different stages of life.
  2. Breast Health – Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women. Regular breast self-exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms are important for early detection.
  3. Heart Health – Coronary heart disease ranks as the top global cause of female mortality. Around 80% of women aged 40 to 60 possess coronary heart disease risk factors. Regular check-ups, monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol, and adopting healthy habits is vital for prevention.
  4. Mental Health – Women have an increased risk of developing mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. It’s crucial to promote mental health awareness and reduce the stigma associated with seeking assistance.
  5. Osteoporosis – Women are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men, a condition characterized by weakening bones. Adequate calcium intake, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise can help maintain bone health.
  6. Cervical Health – Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer faced by women globally. Regular visits to the doctor, Pap smears and HPV vaccinations can help prevent cervical cancer, which is highly preventable with early detection and treatment.
  7. Sexual Health – This includes issues such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual dysfunction, and pelvic floor disorders. Open communication with healthcare providers and safe sex practices are important.
  8. Autoimmune Diseases – Conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis are more prevalent in women. Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for maintaining quality of life.
  9. Urinary Tract Health – Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other urinary tract issues are common among women. Along with good hygiene practices, seeking prompt medical attention for UTI symptoms is crucial to prevention and treatment.
  10. Gynecological Cancers – Besides breast and cervical cancer, women are also at risk for ovarian, uterine, and vaginal cancers. Awareness of symptoms and regular screenings can improve early detection and treatment outcomes.

As we observe National Women’s Health Week, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of prioritizing women’s health year-round. Too often, women may dismiss symptoms or discomfort, but regular doctor visits, check-ups, and tests are essential components of maintaining optimal health. By incorporating these practices into their routine, women can proactively monitor their well-being and address any emerging concerns promptly. Let’s empower women to take charge of their health, recognizing that their proactive approach today ensures a healthier and happier tomorrow—for themselves and for those who rely on them.

Share this article with the women who inspire you! Let’s empower them to prioritize their health and well-being.

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Resources

  • ‌Coronary Heart Disease – Women and Heart Disease | NHLBI, NIH. (n.d.). Www.nhlbi.nih.gov. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/coronary-heart-disease/women
  • Mayo Clinic . (2022). Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447
  • Osteoporosis Facts and Statistics. (n.d.). Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/osteoporosis-facts-5323575
  • ‌Schimelpfening, N. (2020, December 24). Why Depression Is More Common in Women Than in Men. Verywell Mind; Verywellmind. https://www.verywellmind.com/why-is-depression-more-common-in-women-1067040
  • Why Autoimmune Diseases are More Common in Women. (n.d.). Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-autoimmune-diseases-affect-more-women-5095040
  • ‌World Health Organization. (2023, November 17). Cervical Cancer. World Health Organization; World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer
  • World Health Organization. (2023, March 31). Depressive Disorder (depression). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression

Disclaimer

We want you to be well and to live your best life. The content in this blog is provided for the purposes to educate and entertain you: our very important reader. It is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for medical advice from a trained healthcare professional.

If you have a medical condition or are under the care of a medical provider, please always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional before undertaking a new health care regimen. To that point, never disregard medical advice or delay treatment for a medical condition because of something you read on this site.

Listen to your care providers as they know you and your condition best. Thank you for reading!

The Team at BSDI

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