Take A Leap Of Faith On Leap Year
- By Angie Lim
As a woman, your health needs change as the years go by. To stay on top of your wellness, it is crucial to understand the most common health issues for women of different ages. Let’s look at the most common health issues affecting Filipina women in their twenties, thirties, forties, and fifties.
In Your Twenties
For many young women, the 20s is a time filled with educational pursuits and career exploration. With so much going on, it can be hard to fit in taking care of your body and mind as well. The most common health problems facing young women in their 20s include stress, sleep deprivation, anemia, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), and UTIs (urinary tract infections).
To prevent these conditions from occurring or worsening, make sure you get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables, and take regular breaks throughout the day. Additionally, try to find time for exercise—even just a quick walk around the block will do wonders for your well-being!
In Your Thirties
When you hit your thirties, you may start feeling the effects of aging with issues like joint pain or aches around your neck. It is also more likely for you to develop high cholesterol or heart disease if you have been leading an unhealthy lifestyle up until then. Endometriosis is also a common health concern among women in their thirties; it occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus starts growing outside of the uterus, which can cause pelvic pain that intensifies during periods.
With many women also choosing to start a family in their 30s, it’s important to consider the heightened risk of conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth. Women can suffer from severe complications such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, and if not treated quickly, these conditions can prove fatal. It's wise for all prospective mothers to discuss age-related risks thoroughly with their doctor and are conversant in any necessary precautions that could help ensure a safe delivery.
To reduce your risk of developing these ailments it is important to follow healthy lifestyle habits. Also, consider supplementing with vitamins if needed; vitamin B12 deficiency is especially common among Filipinas due to low levels of animal protein consumption associated with traditional diets.
In Your Forties
The most common health issue for women in their 40s is osteoporosis, which is caused by low levels of estrogen after menopause. Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures due to weakened bones—so it's important to keep up with calcium intake through food sources or supplements in order to prevent bone loss. Other common issues include breast cancer (which increases with age), menopause-related conditions such as migraines or night sweats; bladder problems due to weakened pelvic muscles; and heart disease (which remains a concern).
As you enter your forties, taking care of your health should become a priority. Visiting your doctor annually for check-ups and screenings can help detect any potential problems before they arise. If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to invest in health insurance so you can mitigate the costs that come from maintaining your health. It is also important to practice self-care by taking the time to relax and do things that bring joy into your life.
In Your Fifties
The most serious health issue facing women in their 50s is breast cancer—which affects 3 in 100 Filipino women—so regular mammograms are essential for early detection if needed. Other common issues include osteoporosis (which continues into this decade); arthritis due to wear-and-tear on joints; urinary incontinence due to weakened muscles; stroke due to increased risk factors such as smoking or high cholesterol; and chronic pain from years of wear-and-tear on the body.
Taking care of your health in your fifties is crucial and there are many things you can do to maintain a healthy lifestyle. On top of the habits you've already built, consider meeting with a nutritionist to develop an eating plan tailored to fit your lifestyle and overall health goals.
Although no one can turn back the clock to remain younger forever, there are many things you can do to help maintain your health and fitness as you age. Investing in your future by making healthy lifestyle choices now is a great way to ensure that you have an enjoyable and long life. Regular exercise and a diet rich in proteins, fruits, and vegetables are just some of the ways you can take control of your present health. Furthermore, keeping current with immunizations and visiting the doctor regularly for preventive screenings are essential in order to keep any developing conditions or diseases at bay.
Taking care of yourself during each decade of life is essential for maintaining good health throughout your entire lifetime. Knowing what common health issues you may face during different times can help you stay proactive about your own well-being so that you can enjoy all life has to offer! Be sure to consult with a trusted doctor regularly regarding any concerns or questions you may have about your overall wellness.