Urinary tract infections are 50 times more common in women<\/strong> than in men. Thyroid disease is 15 times more likely to affect women<\/strong> than men<\/p>\n From stroke and cardiovascular diseases to diabetes and menopause, women<\/strong> are susceptible to multiple illnesses. For most women, caring for their health might not be at the top of their to-do list. If a woman<\/strong> is responsible for your smile, please be responsible for her health. This year on Women’s Day<\/strong>, let’s get acquainted with some important body facts to help that special woman<\/strong> in your life stay healthy and hearty<\/p>\n Be well- informed about your genetics \u2013 When it comes to getting tested for a chronic illness, most doctors ask their patients about genetics and family history. Knowing about your parent’s illness can certainly not predict your medical future but definitely help you and your doctor lookout for specific things. Next time you get a health check-up make sure to update your doctor about your family medical history. Keep an eye on things like high blood pressure and cholesterol, any cancer or chronic illnesses that may run in your family<\/p>\n Do not ignore cramps and spotting between your periods \u2013 Most women<\/strong> tend to ignore painful menstrual cramps and spotting between periods as a routine occurrence. This could prove to be a cause of concern later. For most adolescents and women<\/strong> in their early 20s, cramps could be triggered by excess of the hormone prostaglandin. However, in older women<\/strong> cramps can be a sign of fibroids, polyps or endometriosis. Watch closely for any unusual changes in your body and always keep your doctor informed<\/p>\n Know the signs of a Heart Attack \u2013 A study conducted at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital<\/strong> revealed that women<\/strong> as compared to men pose a higher risk of being under-diagnosed of heart attacks in the absence of gender-specific diagnostic tests.<\/p>\n The warnings signs of a Heart Attack are different for women<\/strong> as compared to men. In addition to chest pains, women<\/strong> tend to have minor discomfort in the upper back, shoulders, neck, jaw or arms. Some women<\/strong> may also experience extreme fatigue or anxiety in the weeks leading up to a heart attack.<\/p>\n Beware of Skin Cancer \u2013 Although face is one of the most sun-exposed areas of the body, it isn’t the only place for skin cancer to show up. Women<\/strong> often ignore certain areas of the body which are lesser exposed but not protected by sunscreen like the scalp, back of the neck and even bottom of the feet. Make regular appointments with a dermatologist and do not forget to use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30. What’s more\u2026 take note of your skin texture (on your whole body) and pay attention to any irregularities. Early detection can be very helpful in successful skin cancer treatment<\/p>\n Get a Bone Density Test – Foods that contain a high level of Sodium are known to extract calcium from the body thereby increasing the risk of developing Osteoporosis. Women<\/strong> are naturally prone to losing their bone density after the age of 30. Studies indicate that post-menopausal women<\/strong> who consume a high sodium diet pose a significantly higher risk of losing essential bone minerals as compared to others. It is thus recommended for all women<\/strong> above the age of 45 or 50 to test their Bone Density Test within regular intervals.<\/p>\n Get tested for PCOS – According to a survey, 1 out of 5 women<\/strong> in Mumbai (within the reproductive age) is at the risk of developing PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), which is also known to cause infertility. Never heard of this term\u2026?<\/p>\n Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a common endocrine system disorder, whereby a woman’s<\/strong> levels of sex hormones go out of balance resulting in enlarged ovaries with small collections of fluid called follicles. There is no permanent cure for PCOS, although this medical condition can be managed to a large extent with timely diagnosis<\/p>\n Get screened for Breast Cancer \u2013 Any changes in your breasts or nipple, a new lump or changes in skin color and texture are symptoms of breast cancer.<\/p>\n Mammography is an important tool in breast cancer screening and the only means to detect cancer at a very early stage. Many women<\/strong> fear a mammography test because they believe it to be a painful procedure. The fact is that most advanced Mammography machines these days are equipped with a sensor that clearly indicates when optimal compression of the breast is achieved, thus preventing over compression and associated discomfort.<\/p>\n Well-equipped with state-of-the-art radiation machines and day care chemo suites, the Comprehensive breast care unit at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital<\/strong> is a dedicated service that has been created to specifically diagnose and treat the entire spectrum of conditions affecting mammary gland.<\/p>\n