Put Yourself First
by Deb Maes, Extension Educator
Q. I’m a young woman in my early thirties with two preschoolers. I make sure that they have regular checkups, eat healthy food and are active. But what about me? What are the issues that I should be concerned about so that I can enjoy my children as they grow into adults?
A. Too often when we have young children our focus is only on their health needs, not our own. It is important to make sure we are healthy enough to provide our children with the love and support that they need. Researchers are placing a greater emphasis on issues relating to women’s health, including heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, depression, autoimmune diseases, substance abuse, chronic pain, eating disorders and more.
Heart Disease is responsible for almost 30% of women’s deaths. As we age, our risk of heart disease increases. Consider your family’s health history. Smoking, high blood cholesterol, obesity and diabetes all increase your risk. Be an example to your children by adopting good eating habits and getting regular exercise.
Breast Cancer is the most common cause of cancer in women. Early detection of breast cancer increases your risk for survival and medical research is exploring new treatment options. As with heart disease, the older you are the greater your risk for cancer. Pay attention to your family’s history, but realize that anyone can get breast cancer. Too much alcohol, poor diet and excess weight have been indicated as risks factors for developing breast cancer.
A lifetime low calcium intake increases your risk of osteoporosis. Of the 44 million Americans with this disease, almost 70% are women. If you are older, small boned, have a history of anorexia, have eaten a diet low in calcium and vitamin D, and have a sedentary lifestyle, your chances of developing osteoporosis increase. Make healthy choices to prevent this.
Twice as many women as men are affected by depression. Risk factors for depression include a family history of depression, marital problems, substance abuse, stressful lives, and high anxiety. To reduce the risk, find a reason to get up in the morning; your job, volunteer work, community activities, pets and family can help you develop a zest for life. Get help when needed.
Probably the most difficult women’s health issues are the autoimmune diseases. Currently at least eighty serious chronic diseases fall into this category including lupus, multiple sclerosis and type1 diabetes. Autoimmune diseases make up the fourth-largest cause of disability among American women. Medical experts point to the need for much more research in this area since these diseases are not well understood.
As a parent with young children, learn to take charge of your health. Get regular checkups. Eat a healthy diet. Get enough sleep and exercise. Develop a support system at home and at work. Learn to manage your stress. When visiting your health care provider, if you have questions, ask them. If you are prescribed medication, take it as directed. Listen to your body.
Learn to be as concerned about your health as you are your children’s health and before you know it you’ll be holding your first grandchild.
Deb Maes is the Family and Consumer Resources Educator for UNH Cooperative Extension, Grafton County. For more information about parenting programs and other valuable learning opportunities, contact your local UNH Cooperative Extension county office, or visit http://extension.unh.edu