Across the world, women are known to live longer than
men.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the life expectancy of women is 74.2 years, while
that of men is 69.8 years.
Here are some health issues to look out for as a woman.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer, which usually originates in the lining of the
milk ducts, can spread to other organs.
It is a common type of cancer affecting women globally.
Breast cancer is more predominant among the female population, although
it affects men as well.
Women who have breast cancer may develop breast lumps, but
most breast lumps are nonthreatening.
It is therefore important for women to have lumps checked
out by a doctor.
Regular self-examination can also help with early detection.
Ovarian cancer
It is any cancer that begins in the ovaries. It is one of
the most common cancers affecting
women.
In its early stages, ovarian cancer has little to no
symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they tend to resemble that of other conditions
such as premenstrual syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome.
Symptoms may however include pain or pressure in the pelvis,
unexpected vaginal bleeding, pain in the back or abdomen, and bloating.
Cervical cancer
A lot of people are not aware that ovarian cancer and
cervical cancer are different.
Although both conditions cause similar pain, cervical cancer
also causes discharge and pain during intercourse.
It’s unclear what causes cervical cancer but human
papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, plays
a role.
You can lower your risk of having cervical cancer by having
screening tests and receiving a vaccine that protects against HPV infection.
Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are tumors or growth in or
on the wall of the uterus or womb.
Not all fibroids cause symptoms but, when they do, they can
include heavy menstrual bleeding, back pain, frequent urination, and pain
during sex. It can, however, be diagnosed through a pelvic exam.
Family history of fibroids, starting menstruation at an early
age, and not having children can increase the risk of getting fibroids.
Small fibroids often don’t need treatment but larger ones
can be treated with medication or surgery.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the
lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
It is a common gynecological disease, and its primary
symptoms include pain and infertility.
Experts have attributed two main risk
factors to endometriosis such as starting menstruation before the
age of 11 years, as well as heavy and prolonged menstruation.
Studies have shown that eating more (citrus) fruits can
lower one’s risk of endometriosis.
Depression
Women are prone to feeling depressed at various stages and
points in their lives due to natural hormonal fluctuations.
For instance, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a more
severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), can cause depression among women.
After giving birth, some mothers experience perinatal
depression which causes emotional shifts, sadness, and tiredness.
Perimenopause, the shift into menopause, can also cause depression in women.
Speaking to a professional when depressed is highly
encouraged and can help one feel better.
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that can be
transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or vaginal fluids.
Sadly, women account for more than half the number of people
living with HIV worldwide.
Young women between the ages of 10 and 24 years old
are twice as likely to contract HIV as young men the
same age. In fact, Michel Sidibé, former executive director of UNAIDS, described
HIV as an epidemic for women.
Although treatment can help with the condition, it cannot be
cured. Regular screening for early detection is highly encouraged.
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