While many health concerns are universal, some issues affect women differently. Understanding common health conditions, recognizing symptoms, and knowing when to seek care can make a big difference in staying healthy. Starting with preventive care is always best.
By Paige Stanley, FNP, Sodus Community Health.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits for Women
- Exercise Regularly
Even simple activities like walking 30 minutes daily can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can improve heart health and stabilize blood sugar levels.
3. Manage Stress
Deep breathing, mindfulness, and exercise can help manage stress levels.
4. Get Enough Sleep
Women should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support overall well-being.
5. Avoid Harmful Substances
Limiting alcohol, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly lower the risk of many health conditions.
Annual Checkups and Screenings
Routine checkups help detect potential health issues before they become serious. Women should schedule annual physical exams to monitor their overall well-being. Depending on age and medical history, doctors may recommend additional screenings, including:
- DEXA Scans (Age 65+) – These tests screen for osteoporosis and bone density loss.
- Colonoscopy (Starting at Age 45) – Colon cancer screenings are now recommended earlier than before. Alternatives like the Cologuard test or a FIT test are available for lower-risk patients.
Women should also visit their OB-GYN regularly for well-woman exams, even if they are not due for a Pap smear.
Top Health Concerns for Women 
Breast and Cervical Cancer
Cancer is one of the biggest health concerns for women, with breast cancer being the most common (excluding skin cancer). Early detection is key, which is why medical providers recommend routine screenings. Recently, guidelines have changed, and mammograms now start at age 40. If results are normal, they should be done annually.
Cervical cancer screenings, or Pap smears, also play a critical role in women’s health. These screenings begin at age 21. If results are normal, women should have a Pap test every three years from 21 to 29. At age 30, screenings can be done every five years if combined with an HPV test. However, if any abnormalities are found, testing should be done more frequently.
Heart Disease and Stroke
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., yet many people do not recognize the symptoms in women. Unlike men, women often do not experience the classic crushing chest pain. Instead, symptoms can be more subtle, including:
- Dull chest pain
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea, acid reflux, or vomiting
- Muscle aches or flu-like symptoms
These signs can be mistaken for other conditions causing women to ignore them and lead to delays in medical care. Heart disease can develop over time, so it is important to monitor risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. Medical professionals generally start screening for heart disease risks around age 40. However, due to rising obesity rates, younger women should also be mindful of their heart health.
Diabetes and Weight Management
Diabetes is another growing concern for women. Many people have had prediabetes for years without knowing it. Warning signs include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Constant hunger
- Fatigue
- Slow-healing wounds
Prediabetes is diagnosed when an A1C level reaches 5.7%, while diabetes is diagnosed at 6.5% or higher. If lifestyle changes such as eating healthier and exercising regularly do not lower blood sugar levels, medication may be necessary.
Many new medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, were originally designed for diabetes but are now widely used for weight loss. However, they are not a magic solution. Insurance companies often only approve these drugs for diabetes patients, and lifestyle changes like diet and exercise remain the most effective long-term strategies for weight control.
When to Seek Care
Women should not wait until symptoms become severe to seek medical attention. Regular checkups, screenings, and early intervention can significantly improve the prevention and management of health conditions. If any unusual symptoms arise, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider.
