The biggest threats to women's health are often preventable. Although we live longer now than previous generations, our modern lifestyle contributes to the main causes of health problems in women. These are the top four risks to Irish women’s health and tips on what you can do to help prevent against them.
Heart disease
Often regarded as a man’s disease, heart disease is the primary cause of death for women in Ireland. One reason is thought to be the failure of health professionals to recognise the symptoms of a heart attack in female patients. Hospital A&Es have now been issued with guidelines to help them spot the specific signs of heart attack in women.
Breast Cancer
Cancer is the second most common cause of death among women in Ireland and breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed.
Stroke
The death rate from stroke is 60% higher among women than men in Ireland, twice that of breast cancer. This is thought to be because women live longer and tend to suffer from stroke in later life. However, according to Dr Angie Brown, medical director at the Irish Heart Foundation "it is estimated that 40% of strokes could be prevented through better control of blood pressure."
Respiratory diseases
Respiratory conditions are the most common reason we visit the GP and are usually very treatable, but chronic lung conditions which include COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) bronchitis and emphysema are also a huge concern for women, being the fourth most common cause of death.
Take charge of your health. By following these steps and making healthier lifestyle choices you can significantly reduce your risk of suffering from these conditions.
- Don't smoke
- Eat a healthy diet - vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein. Limit saturated fats and salt
- Manage existing health concerns: if you have high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes, follow your doctor's recommendations
- Exercise. Choose sports or other activities you enjoy, or try brisk walking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol intake
- Manage stress – factors can be external, but cutting out smoking, limiting alcohol and taking up exercise will have significant benefits
- Steer clear of pollutants - opt for natural cleaning and hygiene products
- Prevent infections - maintain rigorous hygiene, wash your hands often. Keep vaccinations up to date
- Visit the doctor – seek medical advice if you are unsure about unusual symptoms. Free smear tests are available to all women in Ireland between 25 and 60 years, and free breast screening is available to women aged 50 to 64
