As women we think we are invincible (which we often are), however from head to toe, there are always potential health problems that may be looming, which is why you need to start looking after yourself from an early age.

Breasts, bones and reproductive: go for regular check ups

Breasts:

Did you know that one in 26 South African women are likely to get breast cancer? With these high stats, it is imperative that you keep a close eye on your breasts for any changes as early detection can potentially save your life. While it is recommended that you only start going for mammograms from the age of 40, there is nothing stopping you from doing your own checks a week after every period.

Look out for:

  • Changes in size, shape or colour of your breasts or nipples
  • Abnormal swelling or dimples
  • Redness, rashes or unusual pain

 Bones:

Women are more prone to developing osteoporosis, especially when reaching menopause, which is why it is imperative to start looking after your bones from an early age.

Choosing good lifestyle habits can help prevent osteoporosis including:

  • Getting enough calcium and vitamin D
  • Eating a well balanced diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Eating foods that are good for bone health including dairy, fish, fruit and vegetables
  • Avoiding alcohol and smoking

Reproductive:

Cervical and ovarian cancers are nasty and scary forms of cancer that are of course only prevalent in women. From the age of 25, whether you are sexually active or not, it is imperative that you go for a yearly gynecological check up. During this check up your doctor will do a pap smear, which is done in order to check for cervical cancer, as well as an ultra sound to check your ovaries. There is now an HPV vaccine available that reduces the risk of cervical cancer. Speak to your gynecologist about it the next time you visit.

Keep your tan lines to a minimum and look after your skin

Being dark and tanned may look good when you are young, but are you aware of the after effects once you get older? Every time you lie in the sun to tan your skin, you are increasing your risk for developing skin cancer. Protect yourself with sunscreen (use an SPF of no less than 20) and if you do want to lie in the sun, do it in small amounts so that you decrease the risk of burning.

Another way to check for, and potentially prevent, skin cancer is to check your body every month for melanomas. Also known as moles, the moment you notice changes, or new melanomas on your body, go see your dermatologist.

Changes to look out for include:

  • Asymmetrical moles: moles are usually round and symmetrical
  • Colour changes: common moles are usually a single shade of brown or black
  • Changes to size: moles shouldn’t be more than 6mm. Also look out for moles that become more prominent

 Exercise is key

While many of us don’t get excited by the thought of exercising, staying fit is one of the best measures for staying healthy. Women are just as prone as men to having heart attacks and these days we are seeing more and more younger people passing away due to heart attacks than before. One of the best methods for keeping your heart healthy (besides eating well of course) is cardio. If running on a treadmill or cycling is not your thing, why not try out boxing or even take a Zumba class at your gym. This way you will be doing cardio while having fun.

Weight training is also an easy way to keep those extra kilos off. Having too much fat around your mid-section puts pressure on organs such as your liver and pancreas, which can cause complications. Exercising also slows down the aging process 😉

Keep your mind healthy

Your mind is just as important as the physical components of your body, so don’t neglect it. Studies show that women who are in a positive mental state are more likely to avoid getting sick (by sick we mean the flu; not major illnesses). Keep your mind healthy by increasing your exercise regime; why not join the closest gym or take a yoga class or two each week.

Women are intuitive when it comes to their bodies so if you feel like something is wrong; make sure to visit your doctor. Go for as many opinions as you need until you feel happy that everything is okay with your body.