What Are Some Major Health Issues for Women?
Women face unique health challenges—some due to biology, others social. From heart disease to reproductive concerns, here’s what to watch for.
1. Heart Disease & Stroke
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women globally, often diagnosed later than in men. Symptoms may include chest discomfort, breathlessness, nausea or jaw pain. Stroke is also more common in women, especially after age 80.
2. Diabetes & Metabolic Risk
Women with diabetes have almost four times the risk of heart disease compared to non-diabetic women. Gestational diabetes affects about 3% of pregnancies and can cause complications if untreated.
3. Reproductive Health Concerns
- UTIs: Very common due to shorter urethras—watch for burning and frequent urination.
- HPV and cervical cancer: HPV affects 80% of sexually active women; Pap smears and HPV vaccine are key prevention.
- Breast cancer: Affects around 13% of US women. Regular self-checks and mammograms from age 40 help early detection.
- PCOS: Causes irregular periods, acne, weight gain, and increases risk of diabetes and infertility.
- Endometriosis & fibroids: Lead to heavy bleeding, pain, infertility, and greater risk of heart disease. Venus Williams recently advocated for better awareness.
4. Bone Health & Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis affects around 21% of women over 50—twice the risk for men. After menopause, women face much higher fracture risk, especially hip fractures, due to falling oestrogen.
5. Mental Health Issues
Almost a quarter of women experience depression; anxiety and psychosomatic symptoms are more common in women than men. These issues often coincide with life events such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause.
6. Autoimmune & Hormonal Disorders
Autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease, Sjögren’s syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis affect up to 70% more women than men. Hormonal shifts at puberty, during pregnancy, and menopause can influence physical and emotional health.
7. Cancer Risks
Breast, ovarian, uterine and cervical cancers are leading causes of illness. Lifestyle, genetics and screening access determine outcomes. Early detection saves lives.
8. Anaemia
Iron-deficiency anaemia affects up to 30% of women and up to 80% of pregnant individuals worldwide. Heavy periods, poor diet or absorption issues are common causes.
When to See a Doctor
- Chest pain, breathlessness or unusual jaw/arm pain
- Chronic fatigue, mood shifts or anxiety
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular cycles
- Bone fracture after minor fall
- Recurrent infections like UTIs
- Any unusual lumps, bleeding or pain—get checked
How to Support Your Health
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium, iron and fibre
- Exercise: aim for 150 minutes of activity and strength training weekly
- Stay on top of screenings: mammograms, cervical smears, bone scans after 50
- Monitor mood and seek help early for mental health concerns
- Manage conditions like PCOS, thyroid, endometriosis with doctor support
- Keep strong social ties and manage stress through mindfulness or therapy
Real‑Life Example
Emma, 52, noticed low back pain and easy fractures post-menopause. After a DEXA scan, she began calcium-rich diet, weight-bearing exercise and Vitamin D. A year later, her bone density had stopped declining.
FAQs
1. Are heart attacks different for women?
Yes—women often have non‑classic symptoms like nausea, jaw pain or shortness of breath.
2. Can PCOS affect fertility?
Yes. It causes irregular ovulation. Managing weight, diet and hormones can improve fertility.
3. How often get a cervical smear?
Every 3 years from 25–49, every 5 years from 50–64 in the UK—varies by country guidelines.
4. When should I start bone scans?
Discuss with your doctor around age 65—or earlier if you have risk factors like steroids or early menopause.
5. What’s the link between depression and physical health?
Depression worsens pain, digestion and cardiovascular risk. Treating both mind and body together helps recovery.
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Final Thought
Women’s health is layered—physical, mental, hormonal, societal. Paying attention to your body, building healthy habits and staying informed can make all the difference. You deserve full, vibrant health.