There are many different health issues women are at risk for, some of them posing a severe threat to a woman’s body and well-being. While it is easy to assume that everything in your body is just fine, if you are not aware of the potential health risks common to women, you may not be taking the proper precautions to decrease your risk.
Even though there are serious threats to a woman’s body, they are often preventable. In order to keep yourself and your body healthy and happy, here are the top four health threats facing women today:
Most assume that breast cancer is the number one disease plaguing women when it is in fact heart disease. Nearly 27 percent of female deaths are due to heart disease, as it kills more women yearly than cancer does. Many women tend to associate heart disease with men, as it is widely known that men struggle with the disease. But, women are just as much at risk, and thus should take precautions to keep themselves safe.
For instance, if you are diagnosed with a form of heart disease, consider purchasing a form of medical id jewelry as it can keep friends and family informed. Additionally, eat heart-healthy foods, be physically active, and if possible, do not smoke.
The two leading types of cancer in women are breast cancer and lung cancer. About 22 percent of female deaths each year are due to cancer. Because cancer can be such a sudden disease, it is wise for women to have yearly physicals to look for signs of cancer, especially if cancer runs in the family. Most female lung cancer deaths are due to smoking, thus it is a wise idea to quit smoking. But, generally speaking, when it comes to preventing cancer, there are certain foods that can help reduce your risk, as well as other lifestyle changes that can help decrease your risk for cancer.
Strokes are particularly dangerous to women. Eight percent of all female deaths are due to strokes. Moreover, strokes are also the leading disease for long-term disability, as they can do severe damage to your body. Because more women have strokes than men each year, it is particularly important for women to be aware of the signs, as waiting too long to seek medical attention can lead to permanent consequences. Signs of s stroke are often weakness or numbness on one side of your body, confusion, inability to speak, dizziness, and sudden vision trouble.
As one of the cruelest diseases, Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disorder, meaning that you begin to lose your memory. Alzheimer’s affects more women than men, and often begins with confusion or forgetfulness. Unfortunately, with Alzheimer’s, there is no way to reverse the process. The process can, however, be slowed down if caught in time. With age, it is a wise idea to get a full medical examination each year to rule it out.
These are the four leading health threats in women. Being prepared can help give you a long, health life.