Women, this month is all about you! May is National Women’s Health Month, a great reminder of how important whole-body health is. This month, take the time to schedule appointments with your providers for important checkups.
Top issues facing women’s health
Breast cancer
Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in the U.S. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be more than 316,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnoses and nearly 42,000 deaths from the disease in 2025.
While there is no prevention for breast cancer, regular screenings are important in catching it as breast cancer may not cause symptoms.
Cardiovascular disease
More than 60 million women in the U.S. are living with some form of heart disease, which will kill about 300,000 each year. That’s about 1 in every 5 female deaths, making it the leading cause of fatalities among women. Diabetes, obesity, low physical activity, smoking and drinking too much are all risk factors. Learn more about different types of heart disease, symptoms, risk factors and when to call 911 during an emergency by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
Mental health
Anxiety and depression are two major mental health concerns that affect men and women differently. In the U.S., 1 in 5 women experience a common mental health disorder, such as anxiety or depression, compared to 1 in 8 men. Being aware of potential signs of mental health issues can help you seek support when you need it most.
For resources and information on how to get help, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website.
How to celebrate Women’s Health Month
While Women’s Health Month is in May, this is something that should be celebrated all year. Adding more exercise and healthy foods is an important step toward achieving a healthier lifestyle — and a great way to get your family involved. We need you. So, put your health first this month and beyond!
- Get your yearly well-woman and breast exams.
- Aim to get 2.5 hours of physical activity each week.
Eat a diet full of fruits and vegetables.
Am I a Candidate?
Determine if you are at risk for developing or already have symptoms for venous disease.