May 31st, 2013 - Women's Health

   

             Tonight, like always, we had a great group of women! Because the topic was Women's Health, we touched upon the top 5 Women's Health issues and also discussed different check-ups needed after reaching a certain age. The 6 women were split up into 3 pairs and each given a health issue to learn about, discuss and find the best way to present to the larger group. The beauty of this group work was that they were put into a pair with someone they either didn't know too well or at all. It gave them a chance to get more familiar with group members, actively learn about the topic and have enough courage to present important information to others. Each pair was given a poster board, markers and crayons and their task was to find the best and most creative way to present their topic in a billboard or ad format. The girls had a great time discussing ideas on what to draw, write and act out. After everyone completed their presentations to the larger group, our great friend Nana Erzuah with a Bachelor's degree in Public Health, gave us some vital information on what kinds of different check-ups we should start having as we get older. You can find all the information about the topics presented and what Nana spoke about below. Its time for us to get educated and take good care of our bodies ladies!

Heart Disease

-          Heart disease is responsible for 29% of deaths in women and can also be a concern for women UNDER the age of 65.Although more men die of heart disease than women, women are under diagnosed and discover the condition after it is too late to do anything about it.

             Symptoms: shortness of breath, excessive sweating, lightheaded or dizziness, unusual fatigue, neck, shoulder, upper back or abdominal discomfort.

-          Risk Factors: Heredity (Including race, African-Americans and Hispanics are at higher risk),high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity ( most common), smoking, mental stress and depression, low levels of estrogen after menopause.

-          Reduce the risk: make sure diet is low in saturated fat, oil and cholesterol, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, maintain a healthy weight, quit or don’t start smoking.

   

     

-         Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women. It mainly occurs after menopause however there are instances in young women.

-          Symptoms: Lump in breast or underarm after menstruation, swelling in the armpit, pain or tenderness in breast, flattening, indentation in breasts, change in size or temperature of breasts, unusual discharge from nipple.

-          Risk Factors: Obesity, too much alcohol, family/personal history, race(white women are at a higher risk), early onset of menstruation(before age 12), earlier chest radiation, genes (5-10% of cases are linked to abnormal gene mutations), high intake of red meat.

-          Reduce the risks: exercise, eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans, eat less red and/or processed meat and drink less sugary drinks, reduce drinking of alcoholic beverages limit to about 1 standard drink per day.

Osteoperosis

Osteoporosis, a condition of weak bones that break easily affects 44 million Americans and 68% are women. WOW!

-          Symptoms: easily occurring bone fracture (spine, wrist or hip), back pain, loss of height over time, stooped posture.

-          Risk Factors: small frame, family history, anorexia or bulimia, diet low in Calcium and Vitamin D, excessive alcohol, smoking, inactive lifestyle, race (white and Asian women have the highest risk),infrequent menstrual cycles, medication use.

-          Reduce the risks: weight bearing exercise ( walking,jogging,etc), eat foods rich in calcium and Vitamin D (milk, yogurt, cheese, fish) and dark green vegetables, limit alcoholic beverages.

Autoimmune Diseases

There are more than 80 known types of autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders where the immune system attacks the body and destroys or alters tissues. 75% of autoimmune diseases occur in women. Since there are so many of them, it is impossible to pinpoint the exacts symptoms and prevention methods for each disease.

-          Risk Factors: Women of childbearing age,family history, ethnic background, environmental factors

-          Different Examples: Lupus, Diabetes I, Celiac Disease, Graves’ disease, inflammatory bowel disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Psoriasis.

Depression

There isn't an exact cause for depression but there are many factors involved including hormones and inherited traits.

Symptoms: sleep disturbance, appetite and weight change, lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in usual activities, feelings of guilt, hopelessness and worthlessness, suicidal thoughts.

Risk Factors: family history, experience stressful life events, having a serious illness, abuse of alcohol or drugs, certain high blood pressure medicines, body image issues, low self-esteem, being overly dependent, traumatic experience as a child.

Reduce the risks: aim for 8 hours of sleep, open up to at least one trusted person, practice relaxation techniques, a little sunlight exposure each day, stay active, try to maintain social activities even if not in the mood.

ANNUAL WOMEN CHECK-UPS

Pap Smear - is a check for cervical cancer or any other changes in your cervix that could lead to serious health issues. 

Mammogram (x-ray of the breast) - is a screening that helps detect breast cancer. Though it is not recommended to go without a mammogram, you could do a self breast examination. Check out the steps for a self breast examination here: http://www.genesishealth.com/services/cancer/treat/breast/exam/

STI Testing - is testing for sexually transmitted infections. There are many different STI's and tests for each one. Your doctor will be best at advising which one to take based on your history of sexual activity. 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY, STAY HEALTHY AND GET CHECKED OFTEN!