Women’s health refers to the health of women, which differs greatly from that of men in many unique ways. While often treated as simply women’s reproductive health, many groups argue for a broader definition pertaining to their overall health, that is expressed as “the health of women.” Women bear exclusive health concerns, such as cervical cancer, menopause, and pregnancy. Women suffer a high percentage of heart attack deaths when compared to men. Depression and anxiety are also exhibited more frequently among female patients. Urinary tract conditions are presented more often in females, and sexually transmitted diseases can cause more harm to women.
In the United States, heart disease causes one in every four deaths among women. Although the public considers heart disease a common issue among men, the conditions affect males and females nearly equally. Yet only 54% of women realize that heart disease is the top health condition threatening their gender. In the United States, 49% of all consumers suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoke which are all factors that contribute to heart disease. All women face this threat, but becoming aware of symptoms and risks unique to women, as well as eating a heart-healthy diet and exercising, can all help to protect you.
Women’s hearts are more affected by stress and depression than men’s. Depression makes it difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow recommended treatment. Managing your depression and stress can help alleviate a large amount of heart damage throughout the years. Women who smoke are at a greater risk for heart disease and women that have a lack of physical activity are also at a major risk. In addition, low levels of estrogen after menopause poses a significant risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease in the smaller blood vessels.
Women can make several lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart disease including quit or don’t start smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a healthy diet. There are many gym classes and yoga sessions that are targeted specifically for women in order to address heart health and overall physical activity that targets a woman’s needs. Treat your body like a temple and your body will always reward you for your hard work.
The ultimate prevention of women-specific diseases and age-related diseases is to start when you’re young. You should always maintain an average level of physical activity, watch what you eat, but don’t deprive yourself of what your body wants, and always have a clear and open discussion with your healthcare provider about your personal needs and concerns that you may have. The only person who can speak for you is you. It’s time for women to speak up about possible risks and fears that they have and for doctors to start taking them seriously as well as have open discussions. It’s time to take back our bodies.