10 health problems and how every woman can prevent them

The Hellenic Society of Cardiology (EKE) highlights the most important health issues concerning not only the heart but also women’s health more broadly.

Written by cardiologist Ioulia Grapsa, editor-in-chief of JACC Case Report

Do you want to be healthy? Read the following tips from the Hellenic Society of Cardiology (EKE), and you’ll definitely have taken a good first step toward good health!

1. Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women. The symptoms may differ from those experienced by men. The most common symptoms of a heart attack are chest pain, shortness of breath, or nausea. Because women are so busy, they may underestimate their symptoms, thinking they have indigestion, and fail to see their doctor in a timely manner.

Postmenopausal women, in particular, are more likely to have high blood pressure and high cholesterol, as well as lower estrogen levels. There are also heart conditions, such as stress-related heart disease, that are particularly common in women.

2. Cerebrovascular Accidents

Each year, they affect an average of 55,000 more women than men. There are two types of strokes: hemorrhage within the brain and ischemia, which is the blockage of a blood vessel and a lack of oxygen to the brain.

Although symptoms vary, the most common ones are difficulty speaking and loss of sensation in the limbs. Caution is needed during pregnancy when high blood pressure is present (a condition called preeclampsia), as the risk of stroke and other neurological complications increases due to increased blood clotting.

3. Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland regulates many bodily functions, and, depending on how much thyroid hormone it produces, you may feel anxious or tired, or experience fluctuations in your weight. Women are more sensitive to changes in thyroid function during puberty, after pregnancy, and after menopause.

4. Diabetes mellitus

It increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in women by up to four times. Women are more prone to complications of diabetes, such as vision problems, kidney problems, and depression. Special attention should also be given to gestational diabetes, which occurs in fewer than three out of every 100 women and requires monitoring and appropriate treatment.

5. Health Issues During Pregnancy

From iron-deficiency anemia to high blood pressure, the changes a woman experiences during pregnancy can affect her health. Try to eat a healthy diet, quit smoking, and get the necessary vaccinations so that you can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy life after giving birth.

6. Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urethra and multiply. They are very common in women, as their urethra is shorter than men’s, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include frequent urination, pain or a burning sensation during urination, and cloudy urine.

7. Sexual Health

There are more than 30 types of sexually transmitted diseases. One of the most common is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be prevented with the appropriate vaccine. Approximately 80% of sexually active men and women may be infected with this virus. Cervical cancer is one of the most common causes of death among women. With the discovery of the Pap test, doctors can detect precancerous cells and treat them early, resulting in a significant reduction in the incidence of this type of cancer.

8. Breast Cancer

It is one of the most common forms of cancer in women. Monthly breast self-exams are essential for prevention, along with mammograms or ultrasounds after age 40. For women with a family history of breast cancer, it is important to screen for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which significantly increase the risk of breast cancer and may require additional testing. Intensive exercise and quitting smoking also contribute to the prevention of breast cancer.

9. Osteoporosis

After menopause, the risk of osteoporosis increases. Other factors include certain medications, early menopause, a low body mass index, previous cancer treatment, and genes that predispose you to osteoporosis. You can reduce your risk by taking a calcium supplement, doing aerobic exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

10. Alzheimer's Disease

It is a form of damage and loss of healthy brain cells. More than two-thirds of patients are women. Although scientists are studying the genetic link, it’s important to eat a healthy diet, exercise, and not smoke to protect your brain health.

The Hellenic Society of Cardiology recommends that you consult your doctor, follow a healthy lifestyle, and do not neglect your preventive screenings.