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Women's Health

At the turn of the century, most women did not live past menopause. Public health interventions and applied medical research have extended their lives significantly since then, but for many post menopausal women this longer life has meant more years of poor health and dependency. ⁽¹⁾ Women, more so than men, have to be concerned about breast cancer and heart disease. Even though most of us would think breast cancer would be the leading cause of death among women, it has been shown that heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women. In fact heart disease has killed more women then all forms of cancer combined.⁽²⁾ Ovarian cancer is the fourth most frequent cause of death of american women, often symptomless until it is widespread. ⁽²⁾

More than 19 million Americans, with women being the greatest percentage, suffer from an anxiety disorder that disrupts their lives. In addition, women are twice as likely to suffer from major depression. ⁽²⁾

Since older women are at a much higher risk of chronic disease and disabling conditions as they age, they are more likely to require costly long-term care. Women need to concentrate on preventing chronic and disabling conditions such as osteoporosis, hypertension, and heart disease by living a healthy lifestyle, with regular exercise, not smoking, and good nutrition. ⁽³⁾

Sources:
1. http:///www.4woman.gov/owh/pub/older%/20wh/
2. http://www.pinnaclecare.com/about_pinnaclecare/resource_center/articles/the_top_healthcare_issues_women_face_today
3. http://www.dhs.cahwnet.gov/cpltc/html/consumer.htm#twelve