5 Common Health
Conditions That
Affect Women
Men and women share various health
concerns. However, certain health
issues affect women differently and
more frequently than men. In addition, certain
health conditions, such as cervical cancer, are
exclusive
to women.
Women
who want
to take
charge
of their
health can
recognize
that various conditions and diseases are more
common than others. The following are fi ve
common and notable health issues affecting
women today.
• Heart disease: Heart disease affects more than
60 million women in the United States and is the
leading cause of death for women. Heart disease
can affect women of all ages. Despite this, the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says
only 56 percent of women recognize the prevalence
of heart disease. In addition, it's important
to note that most women between the ages of 40
and 60 have at least one or more risk factors for
heart disease and likely do not even realize it.
• Breast cancer: Routine mammograms and other
breast cancer screenings can help women detect
breast cancer at its earliest stage when it is
most treatable.
• Cervical and ovarian cancer: Cervical cancer
originates in the cervix, which is part of the lower
uterus, while ovarian cancer begins in the fallopian
tubes and ovaries. Pap smears can detect
cervical cancer, but currently there is no screening
test for ovarian cancer. A pelvic exam and ultrasound
or other imaging may be recommended
if doctors suspect the presence of ovarian cancer.
• Reproductive health issues: The Orlando
Clinical Research Center says that reproductive
issues can have a major affect on women's quality
of life and overall health. Some common issues
include uterine fi broids, gynecological cancers,
interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, and polycystic
ovary syndrome. Pain, heavy or irregular periods
and other discharge may be symptoms of these
types of conditions.
• Mental health concerns: Rates of anxiety and
depression are higher among women than men.
The Anxiety Disorders Association of America
reports that, from the time a girl reaches puberty
until about the age of 50, she is twice as likely to
have an anxiety disorder as a man.
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