Women take on various roles in life to provide care for their families. And while we strive to make the best out of our career and family, we sometimes neglect the most important aspect that makes us strong – health. Today, women are reported to be more prone to deadly diseases and disorders due to our diets, exposure to chemicals, and social pressure. These are the five common diseases to hit women, and they can come at any age. Detect these diseases before they take your life.
1. Breast Cancer
One of every 20 women is at risk of suffering from breast cancer in her lifetime. According to the latest Health Ministry report, 29 out of 100,000 Malaysian women had breast cancer, making it the leading cause of mortality among women.
Prevention of breast cancer comes from practicing self-detection tests at home. Here are 10 Steps to Healthier Breasts
2. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a disorder that involves extreme fatigue. It is mostly common among women between ages 20 to 40, and signs include fevers, muscle weakness and discomfort, mood swings, inability to concentrate and even loss of appetite. Prevention of CFS starts with a healthy diet, a proper amount of exercise and sufficient sleep at night.
3. Cystitis
Cystitis involves symptoms such as burning and pain during urination, or even increased frequency of urination. This is is caused by the an inflammation of the wall in the urinary bladder. The common factors that cause cystitis could be from a bacterial infection and exposure to chemicals. Cranberry juice helps flush off the bacteria sticking to the bladder, so drink a glass of cranberry extract daily.
4. Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a disease that’s rising among women, particularly those who are sexually active. Symptoms of cervical cancer generally include vaginal bleeding between periods, pain during intercourse and excessive vaginal discharge. Cervical cancer can be detected with a Pap smear, where the physical will scrape a small bit of the cervix for microscopic analysis.
5. Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are delicate matters as they develop through inner emotional or psychological problems in a woman’s life. Some develop excessive eating habits, some chose not to in order to block out painful feelings. Young women, especially between ages 15-25 are more vulnerable to eating disorders due social pressure. Trauma, illness and even disability are known to cause eating disorders. Patients of eating disorders require special medical care, especially with their diet due to lack in nutrients, and some will require extensive psychological recovery.
