Many of these health problems can be prevented if we take the right steps.
Scientific research suggests the top causes of death among adult
women include heart disease, stroke, cancer, depression, osteoporosis,
autoimmune disease, melanoma and type-2 diabetes.
Many of these health problems can be prevented if we take the right steps.
1. Heart disease
Heart disease is the leading killer for both men and women. Women
tend to be under-diagnosed to the point it’s too late to help them once
the condition is discovered. Many studies also suggest that in women the
symptoms may just not be chest pain. Symptoms like jaw pain, shoulder
pain, nausea, or shortness of breath should also be looked at.
Symptoms: Chest pain, jaw pain, shoulder pain, nausea, shortness of breath.
Prevention: Women can reduce their risk of heart disease by modifying lifestyle to include a well-balanced diet and exercise.
2. Breast cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In breast cancer,
the cancer begins in the tissues of the breasts. The cancer cells may
form a tumor. (Note: Not all tumors are cancerous. )
Symptoms: A lump in or near a breast or in your arm,
thick or firm tissue in or near your breast or under your arm, a change
in size or shape of your breast.
Prevention: Weight management. Eat lean protein,
whole grains and choose vegetable oil over animal fat. Exercise for at
least 30 minutes daily, drink little or no alcohol, don’t smoke. If you
have recently given birth then breast-feed your baby for as long as
possible. Get regular breast cancer screenings.
3. Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune
system attacks the body and destroys or alters tissues. There are more
than 80 serious chronic illnesses in this category, including lupus,
multiple sclerosis, and type-1 diabetes.
According to the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association
(AARDA), about 75 per cent of autoimmune diseases occur in women. These
diseases are not very common, except for diabetes, thyroid disease, and
lupus, but as a group, the disorders make up the fourth-largest cause of
disability among American women.
Symptoms: Some of the common autoimmune diseases are
rheumatoid arthritis – inflammation of joints and surrounding tissues.
Systemic lupus erythematosus – affects skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and
other organs. Multiple sclerosis – affects the brain and spinal cord.
Celiac sprue disease – a reaction to gluten (found in wheat, rye, and
barley) that causes damage to the lining of the small intestine.
Prevention: Take immune-balancing nutrients and
supplements, including vitamin D, essential fats (like EPA/DHA and GLA),
and probiotics. Practice deep relaxation daily through yoga,
meditation, or anything that reverses the stress response. Keep a strict
check on your weight.
4. Osteoporosis
It is a condition in which bone density decreases. It occurs in both
men and women. Overall, however, it is more of a major health concern
for women. Some studies say that as many as one of every two women over
50 suffer a fracture related to osteoporosis in their lifetime.
Symptoms: Back pain, caused by a fractured or
collapsed vertebrae, loss of height over time, a stooped posture, a bone
fracture that occurs much more easily than expected.
Prevention: Three factors essential for keeping your bones stronger are: adequate calcium, adequate vitamin D, and regular exercise.
5. Melanoma
Melanoma is a cancer that develops in melanocytes, the pigment cells
present in the skin. It can be more serious than the other forms of skin
cancer because it may spread to other parts of the body (metastasize)
and cause serious illness and death. Melanoma can develop in an existing
mole or any other mark on the skin, but it often develops in unmarked
skin. Although melanoma can grow anywhere on the body, it often occurs
on the upper back of men and women and on the legs in women.
Symptoms: Elevation, such as thickening or raising
of a previously flat mole. Surface, such as scaling, erosion, oozing,
bleeding, or crusting. Sensation, such as itching, tingling, or burning.
Consistency, such as softening or small pieces that break off easily
(friability).
Prevention: Stay out of the sun during the midday
hours. Use a sunscreen every day with an SPF of at least 15. Look for a
sunscreen that protects against both types of ultraviolet radiation in
the sun’s rays-UVA and UVB. Avoid sunbathing and tanning salons. Studies
suggest that your risk of melanoma increases by 75 per cent if you
start using artificial tanning before you are 30 years old.
6. Type-2 diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that involves problems with the hormone
insulin. While not everyone with type-2 diabetes is overweight, obesity
and lack of physical activity are two of the most common causes of this
form of diabetes.
Symptoms: Increased urination, excessive thirst. Weight loss, hunger, skin problems, Fatigue and irritability.
Prevention: Maintain your weight, exercise daily, consume a healthy diet, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
7. Blood pressure
The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is through
regular checkups. This is especially important if you have a close
relative who has high blood pressure.
Symptoms: Severe headache, fatigue, vision problems,
chest pain, difficulty breathing, blood in the urine and pounding in
the chest, neck or ears.
Prevention: Maintaining healthy weight, getting
regular exercise, reducing salt intake, drinking alcohol in moderation,
if at all, reduce stress.
8. Depression
Feeling depressed is a normal reaction to loss, life’s struggles, or an injured self-esteem.
Symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, remembering
details, and making decisions. Fatigue and decreased energy. Feelings of
guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness. Feelings of hopelessness
and/or pessimism. Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive
sleeping. Irritability, restlessness. Loss of interest in activities or
hobbies. Overeating or appetite loss.
Prevention: Eating a healthy diet, getting regular
exercise, and taking time out for fun and relaxation may work together
to prevent a depressed mood.
9. Alzheimer’s disease
A progressive mental deterioration that can occur in middle or old
age, due to generalized degeneration of the brain. It is the commonest
cause of premature senility.
Symptom: Increasing forgetfulness or mild confusion.
Prevention: Regular exercise. Healthy diet. Mental stimulation. Quality sleep. Stress management. An active social life.
10. Menopause
Menopause is defined as the point in time when menstrual cycles
permanently cease due to the natural depletion of ovarian oocytes from
aging. Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life cycle and cannot be
prevented.
Symptoms: Irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, sleep difficulties, and irritability.
Prevent complications: Get your blood pressure checked every two years, maintain a normal blood pressure. Eat right and exercise regularly.
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