Men and women have different body types and biological needs that give rise to specific health concerns that are more bothersome for women than men.
Here are a few medical conditions that are of great concern to women:
Heart Disease: Many women don't have chest pain. In the circulation study on early female heart attack symptoms, researchers found that during a heart attack, 43% of the 515 women studied had no "acute chest pain, a 'hallmark symptom in men,'. Although women can have chest tightness as a symptom of a heart attack, it's also important for women to recognize that might not be their symptom. Women commonly have symptoms of shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue, or pressure in the lower chest, so they easily mistake it as a stomach ailment.
Osteoporosis: It occurs in both genders, but is more common in women. Osteoporosis is a disease of bones that leads to an increased risk of fracture. In osteoporosis, the bone mineral density (BMD) is reduced and the bone microarchitecture deteriorates. Also, the amount and the variety of proteins in bones are altered. Osteoporosis itself has no specific symptoms, its main consequence is the increased risk of bone fractures. Typical fragility fractures occur in the vertebral column, rib, hip, and wrist. The risk for osteoporotic fractures can be split between non-modifiable and (potentially) modifiable factors.
Breast Cancer: Cancer originating from breast tissue, most commonly from the inner lining of milk ducts or the lobules that supply the ducts with milk. Cancers originating from ducts are known as ductal carcinomas; those originating from lobules are known as lobular carcinomas. Breast cancer is a disease of humans and other mammals; while the overwhelming majority of cases in humans are women. The primary risk factors for breast cancer are female sex, age, lack of childbearing or breastfeeding, higher hormone levels, race, economic status, and dietary iodine deficiency.
Depression: Depression is a serious condition that can impact every area of your life. It can affect your social life, your family relationships, your career, and your sense of self-worth and purpose. And for women, in particular, depression is common. If you're feeling sad, guilty, tired, and just generally "down in the dumps," you may be suffering from major depression. But the good news is that depression is treatable, and the more you understand about depression's particular implications for and impact on women, the more equipped you will be to tackle the condition head-on.
The best way to protect your health is by eating a balanced diet and indulging in exercises such as running, walking, gym workouts, aerobics, and yoga.
It is never too late to keep health strong and avoid diseases.
