Women’s Health Awareness

Introduction of Women’s Health

There has been a growing concern over women’s health in recent times, as lifestyle changes have led to an increase in women’s health issues. Adopting prevention strategies like early diagnosis and timely treatment is the key to healthy and happy lives. 

Therefore, let’s explore the major women’s health concerns faced by women today, along with their symptoms, causes, risks, and treatment options, in detail.

Health Issues Faced By Women Today

1. Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is now one of the most widespread cancer diseases that affect women. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 12 women face breast cancer risk in their lifetime.

Symptoms

• Early-stage breast cancer does not have clear symptoms
• Possible later signs – lumps in breast, nipple discharge, changes in breast size/shape, skin irritation

Causes & Risk Factors

• Genetics – family history of breast/ovarian cancer
• Lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption, smoking
• Obesity, weight gain after menopause
• Use of hormones like oestrogen
• Older age
• Gender – women face a higher risk

Diagnosis

• Mammogram – Best screening test, uses low dose x-rays
• Breast MRI – Detailed imaging using magnetic field, contrast dye
• Breast Biopsy – Removal of a sample of breast tissue to check for cancer cells
• Blood Tests – To check overall health and cancer cell growth

Treatment

• Surgery – Lumpectomy or full/partial mastectomy
• Radiation Therapy – High energy beams destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy – Strong anti-cancer drugs may be given before/after surgery
• Hormone Therapy – Blocks oestrogen effects on breast cancer cells
• Targeted Therapy – Uses the immune system to fight cancer cells

2. Heart Diseases

Heart disease is also an area of concern for women globally. Busy schedules and unhealthy lifestyles are causing more heart issues.

Symptoms

• Chest pain, tightness, burning, aching
• Pain in jaw, neck, shoulders, arms
• Nausea, indigestion, heartburn
• Extreme fatigue with no cause
• Lightheadedness, dizziness

Causes & Risk Factors

• Smoking – damages blood cells, increases clotting
• Diabetes – excess blood sugar damages blood vessels
• High blood pressure – extra strain on the heart
• High cholesterol – leads to blockages
• Obesity – excess weight strains the heart
• Lack of physical activity – weakens heart over time
• Family history of heart disease
• Older age, especially after menopause

Diagnosis

• Physical Exam – Heart sounds, blood pressure, pulse checked
• Blood Tests – Checks cholesterol, sugar, kidney function, thyroid, anaemia
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Records heart’s electrical activity
• Chest X-ray – Creates images of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels
• Stress Test – Heart monitored during exercise on treadmill/bike
• Echocardiogram – Uses sound waves to create images of the heart

Treatment

• Medications – Beta blockers, blood thinners, ACE inhibitors to lower blood pressure
• Surgery – Angioplasty to open blocked vessels, bypass for improved blood flow
• Lifestyle Changes – Healthy diet, exercise, stop smoking, limit alcohol

3. Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are very high. Though more common in men earlier, women also face high type 2 diabetes risk today due to sedentary lifestyles.

Symptoms

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst and appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Slow healing of cuts/bruises
• Tingling hands/feet

Causes & Risk Factors

• Family history – having a first-degree relative with diabetes
• Ethnic background – higher prevalence in certain races
• Overweight/obesity – excess body fat causes insulin resistance
• Age – risk increases as one gets older
• History of gestational diabetes/big baby over 9 pounds at birth
• High blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol

Diagnosis

• A1C Blood Test – Gives average blood sugar over 2-3 months
• Fasting Blood Sugar – Blood sugar measured after fasting overnight
• Glucose Tolerance Test – Blood sugar measured before and after a sugary drink

Treatment

• Diabetes Medications – Tablets like metformin, insulin shots
• Diabetic Diet – Low sugar, low carb, high fibre foods
• Exercise & Weight Loss – Helps lower blood sugar levels
• Blood Sugar Monitoring – Checking and recording levels daily

4. Anaemia

Anaemia occurs when the blood has fewer red blood cells than normal or low haemoglobin. Women may overlook fatigue and weakness symptoms.

Symptoms

• Chronic fatigue, weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Pale skin
• Headache, dizziness
• Strange food cravings

Causes & Risk Factors

• Iron deficiency due to heavy periods, pregnancy
• Vitamin deficiency – low vitamin B12, folate
• Chronic diseases like cancer, kidney disorder
• Family history of anaemia

Diagnosis

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test – Checks levels of red cells, white cells, platelets, and haemoglobin
• Iron Tests – Checks the amount of iron in the blood
• Vitamin Deficiency Tests – Measures folate, B12, vitamin C

Treatment

• Iron supplements
• Vitamin supplements

If caused by an underlying condition, treatment is given for that, along with anaemia management.

5. Gynaecological Problems

Gynaecological issues like Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and vaginal infections are other key women’s health concerns.

Symptoms

• Irregular, heavy, painful periods
• Vaginal discharge with foul odour
• Pelvic pain
• Pain/bleeding during sex
• Infertility
• Sudden hot flashes
• Bladder problems
• Breast pain

Causes & Risk Factors

• Hormonal changes – fluctuating oestrogen/progesterone
• Uterine fibroids – non-cancerous growths in the uterus wall
• Use of birth control methods like IUDs and implants
• Sexually transmitted disease
• Previous pelvic surgery like hysterectomy

Diagnosis

• Pelvic Exam – Doctor examines uterus, ovaries, cervix
• Pap Smear Test – Cells collected from the cervix to check for cancer
• Ultrasound – Uses sound waves to examine pelvic organs
• Biopsy – Sample of tissue removed and examined for disease

Treatment

• Medications – NSAIDs, birth control pills, oestrogen therapy
• Surgery – Removal of uterine fibroids, hysterectomy
• Lifestyle changes – Diet, exercise, stress management

6. Mental Health Issues

Modern women face a higher likelihood of mental health struggles like:

Symptoms

• Sad or anxious mood lasting over 2 weeks
• Lack of enjoyment in activities
• Disturbed sleep and appetite
• Irritability, restlessness
• Lack of concentration
• Thoughts of self-harm

Causes & Risk Factors

• Abuse or Trauma – domestic violence, childhood adversity
• Genetics – family history of mental illness
• Life stresses – work, relationships, finances, trauma
• Brain chemistry and circuits – neurotransmitter imbalance
• Drug/alcohol abuse
• Certain illnesses – cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s

Diagnosis

• Overview of symptoms
• Personal and family medical history
• Lab tests to rule out medical issues
• Questionnaires and psychology assessments

Treatment

• Medications – Antidepressants, anti-anxiety meds
• Psychotherapy – Cognitive behavioural therapy, counselling
• Improving diet, physical activity, and sleep habits
• Reduce alcohol & recreational drug use
• Practice relaxation techniques – yoga, mindfulness, deep breathing

Tips for Improving Women’s Health

• A balanced, nutritious diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• 30 minutes of exercise (at least 3-4 days a week)
• 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night
• Managing stress – meditation, social connection
• Regular health screenings – mammograms, Pap smears
• Safe birth control use – condoms, pills

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor promptly if you notice:

• Lumps, nipple discharge, changes in breasts
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Chronic pelvic or abdominal pain
• Chest pain, dizziness or fainting
• Shortness of breath
• Significant tiredness, headaches
• Difficulty sleeping, lack of enjoyment in life

Conclusion

Women face a growing rate of health issues related to lifestyles and stress. Focusing on prevention opportunities like screenings, balanced diets, staying active, and avoiding smoking/excess alcohol can help avoid many women’s health problems.

Paying attention to symptoms and getting timely check-ups leads to early diagnosis and treatment for an improved outlook. Prioritising self-care helps women enjoy well-being despite busy schedules.