Women are more likely than men to develop certain health conditions because of differences in anatomy, hormones, genetics, and life stages. While many are aware of reproductive health concerns such as breast and cervical cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and urinary tract infections, experts say women also face a higher risk of several non-reproductive diseases.
According to Dr. Sheryll Cornejo, an internal medicine consultant at Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), hormonal changes, particularly after menopause, can increase a woman’s vulnerability to conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, autoimmune disorders, and thyroid cancer. Understanding these risks and adopting preventive measures can help women protect their long-term health.
Osteoporosis: Protecting Bone Health
Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures, affects women more frequently due to declining estrogen levels after menopause. Women also naturally have smaller and thinner bones than men, making them more susceptible to bone loss.
Dr. Cornejo recommends strengthening bone health through a calcium-rich diet that includes dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fish with edible bones. Adequate vitamin D from early morning sunlight, along with regular weight-bearing and strength-training exercises, can also help maintain bone density. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption further reduces the risk.
Thyroid Cancer: Early Detection Matters
Women in their reproductive years are more likely to develop thyroid cancer, partly because thyroid tissue contains estrogen receptors that may respond to hormonal fluctuations. Other contributing factors include family history, genetic mutations, radiation exposure, iodine deficiency, and obesity.
Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, limiting unnecessary radiation exposure, and knowing one’s family medical history can help lower the risk. Dr. Cornejo also encourages women to perform regular neck self-examinations to detect unusual lumps or swelling early, as thyroid cancer generally has high survival rates when diagnosed promptly.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: When the Immune System Turns Against the Body
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Women are two to three times more likely than men to develop the condition, largely due to immune-related genes found on the X chromosome and hormonal changes, particularly after pregnancy and during menopause.
Although genetics play a role, lifestyle choices can influence disease risk and severity. Dr. Cornejo advises maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, exercising regularly, managing stress, and quitting smoking, which is a well-established trigger for RA.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Supporting Brain Health
Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed more often in women, partly because women tend to live longer. Other risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and social isolation.
Dr. Cornejo emphasizes that healthy lifestyle habits may help delay or reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Regular physical activity, mentally stimulating activities, and maintaining strong social connections all contribute to better brain health as people age.
Prioritizing Preventive Care
While women cannot eliminate every health risk, many conditions can be prevented or detected early through healthy habits, regular screenings, and awareness of personal and family medical history. By taking proactive steps throughout life, women can reduce their risk of developing serious illnesses and improve their overall well-being.
For more information, visit Makati Medical Center’s official website or consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.
