Heart Disease and Stroke
Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States and a leading
cause of disability among women. Heart disease and strokes share many of the same
risk factors, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, physical
inactivity, poor diet and obesity. To prevent a heart attack or stroke, women should be aware
of these risk factors, follow a healthy diet and daily exercise routine, and abstain from smoking.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer poses a threat to all women. Of all breast cancer patients, over 50% have no
known risk factors. That’s why it is important for all women to educate themselves about
this disease. In 70% of all cases, breast cancer is discovered through self-examinations. Risk
factors include being overweight after menopause or gaining weight as an adult, never having
children, using combined estrogen and progesterone hormone replacement therapy, and having
more than one drink of alcohol per day. Every woman between the ages of 35 and 50 should have
a baseline mammogram.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women worldwide. It can be
detected through a Pap test administered by your OB-GYN. Approximately 70% of all cases are
associated with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The cervical cancer vaccine is
recommended for girls ages 11 to 12, although it may be used in girls as young as 9. Experts at
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a catch-up immunization for girls and
women ages 13 to 26 who haven’t been vaccinated or who haven’t completed the
full vaccine series.
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer usually occurs in women over age 50, but it can affect younger women. Its cause
is unknown and it is hard to detect early. It is important to talk with your healthcare provider as
sometimes there are no symptoms.
Symptoms may include:
• Heavy feeling in the pelvis
• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Bleeding from the vagina
• Weight loss or gain
• Abnormal periods
• Unexplained back pain that gets worse
• Gas, nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and can break from a minor fall or, in
serious cases, from a simple action such as a sneeze. Women are four times more likely than men
to develop the disease. Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million
Americans, or 55% of people aged 55 and older.
There are five steps, which together can optimize bone health and help prevent osteoporosis. They are:
• Get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D
• Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise
• Avoid smoking and excessive use of alcohol
• Talk to your healthcare provider about bone health
• Have a bone density test and take medication when appropriate
Depression
Depression is a serious illness that affects both men and women, but women experience depression at
roughly twice the rate of men. Symptoms can occur in time-limited episodes or can be present for long
periods of time. People with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms. The severity,
frequency and duration of symptoms can vary. Symptoms include:
• Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” feelings
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt and/or helplessness
• Irritability, restlessness
• Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
• Fatigue and decreased energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Overeating or loss of appetite
• Thoughts of suicide
• Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is the most common cause of injury to women ages 15 to 44. Victims may suffer
physical injuries such as bruises or broken bones. They may suffer emotionally from depression,
anxiety or social isolation. Abusers use many ways to isolate, intimidate and control their partners.
It starts insidiously and may be difficult to recognize. The following are some early signs of abuse:
• Quick whirlwind romance
• Wanting to be with you all the time
• Tracking your activities and who you are with
• Jealousy at any perceived attention to or from others
• Quick to blame others for abuse
• Pressure to do things you are not comfortable with