Women face more and are vulnerable to more health issues than men just because they are women! These health issues not only affect their bodies but every other area of their lives from their mental health to their relationships, families and finances.

Women and health

“Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open” (BKS Lyengar).

Although women around the world have come a long way and have achieved and accomplished much during the past decades, many, especially in Africa, are still faced with major health issues. These not only affect their bodies but every other area of their lives from their mental health to their relationships, families and finances.

These are the biggest health issues facing women today:

1.    Cardiovascular (heart) disease

The time when cardiovascular or heart disease was regarded as mostly a man’s disease is long past. Today, many women around the globe die of heart disease too. Unfortunately many die because they ignore the symptoms and are diagnosed too late to be helped. Regular check-ups and clinic visits could help in this regard.

2.    Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women ages 20 to 59, throughout the world. Fortunately, treatment is available and today many women survive breast cancer; it’s not a sure death sentence any more. Unfortunately, the fear of breast cancer sometimes stops women from going for screening tests and the cancer therefore stays undiagnosed until it’s too late to treat it effectively.

3.    Depression

Women are more likely to develop depression and anxiety disorders than men. They are often forced by circumstances beyond their control to witness or endure violent civil conflict and domestic violence that leave them traumatised and depressed. Many are single parents with all the stress and anxiety, not to mention the financial burden, of having to care for their children on their own. Depression is sometimes caused by hormonal changes especially after pregnancy (postpartum) or when menopause rolls around. As in the previous two health issues, depression is not always obvious and is often left undiagnosed with disastrous effects.

4.    Osteoporosis

Strong bones and bone mass are built up during childhood, adolescence and the early adult years before age 30. Osteoporosis caused by weakened bones and deteriorating bone mass can be prevented by making sure women consume enough calcium during these and later years and that they do not lead a sedentary lifestyle but keep those bones strong through weight-bearing physical activity.

5.    Autoimmune diseases

Women are especially vulnerable to autoimmune diseases. About 75% of these disorders, in which the immune system attacks the body and destroys or alters tissues, occur in women. It is not known precisely what causes the body to turn on itself but some suspect that certain genetic, hormonal and environmental factors may play a role. It is quite difficult to diagnose these diseases and women are often frustrated when doctors brush off their complaints and they have to visit more than one doctor to finally get a diagnosis.

6.    HIV and Aids

More than half of the people living with HIV and Aids across the globe are women. In sub-Saharan Africa the figure is even higher because women in these areas are often denied the right to refuse sex with their partners and when they are infected are not able to be treated due to a lack of medical resources and the stigma attached to the condition. Women in general are more exposed to the virus because of their biology; the female genital tract has a large surface area that can be infected. Also, the high levels of the HI virus present in male semen just makes exposure greater.

7.    Pregnancy and childbirth complications

The Report of the Commission on Women’s Health in the African Region states that “while pregnancy is obviously not a sickness, giving birth exposes women to health risks and high fertility has an impact on health in diverse ways…”. Many pregnant women also suffer from malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies and anaemia, the cause of many deaths during childbirth.

8.    Health-effects of sexual and domestic violence

Millions of women are the victims of sexual violence such as rape and sexual assault, coerced marriage and other forms of sexual abuse, each year. Millions more have been victims of domestic violence. The health effects of these issues include unwanted pregnancy, botched and un-safe abortions, HIV infection, alcohol abuse, long-term physical injury, depression, suicide and even death at the hands of their partners.

Some friendly advice

“Women in particular need to keep an eye on their physical and mental health. We need to do a better job of putting ourselves higher on our own “to do” list” (Michelle Obama).

 

Sources

Addressing the challenge of women’s health in Africa. Report of the Commission on Women’s Health in the African Region. World HealthOrganization.
Moss, G. The nine biggest health issues facing women today — and how you can help. Retrieved from: http://www.bustle.com/
Quotes about women Retrieved from: http://www.motivational-quotes-for-women.com/ l
Zamora, D. Women’s top five health concerns. Retrieved by: http://www.webmd.com/