The Top 5 Health Risks for Women and How Physical Therapy Can Help

Women’s health requires special attention to unique risk factors and the lifestyle shifts that contribute to overall wellness. Health statistics indicate that certain illnesses pose significant risks for women today, including heart disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, Alzheimer’s, and stroke. Awareness and proactive care are crucial for managing these risks, and our STRONGHER Women’s Program offers an integrative approach to help you reduce risk and improve your quality of life.

Below, we’ll look at the top five health risks for women and discuss how the STRONGHER program targets these areas through evidence-based methods, lifestyle changes, and specialized support.

1. Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women worldwide, often with symptoms that differ from men’s, such as neck, jaw, shoulder pain, and fatigue. Risk factors include high blood pressure, cholesterol, physical inactivity, obesity, and smoking. However, managing heart health involves more than just physical aspects—it requires a holistic approach.

How STRONGHER Can Help:
STRONGHER incorporates heart-healthy lifestyle practices, including strength training and cardiovascular fitness routines, dietary advice, and stress management techniques, all adapted for women at various stages of life. Our Physical Therapists also work with your physician to adjust activity levels, ensuring safe and effective progress.

2. Cancer (Breast, Lung, and Colorectal)

Breast, lung, and colorectal cancers are among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women. Factors like smoking, genetics, and lifestyle can increase the risk, but lifestyle adjustments, regular screenings, and early interventions make a difference in prevention and recovery.

How STRONGHER Can Help:
Our program offers education and awareness on cancer prevention, providing lifestyle guidelines like exercise programs tailored for each individual’s needs. Whether through weight management, proper nutrition, or specific exercises to boost immune health, STRONGHER empowers you to take steps toward reducing cancer risks. Regular check-ins also support adherence to health screenings, increasing the likelihood of early detection.

3. Stroke

Stroke is a top health risk for women, particularly as they age. Risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and obesity, with specific issues like pregnancy complications and hormonal factors also playing a role.

How STRONGHER Women Programs Can Help:
Our program emphasizes stroke prevention through risk reduction strategies, such as strength and balance exercises, cardiovascular fitness, and managing high blood pressure through diet and lifestyle choices. Our team provides education on warning signs, beneficial prophylactic testing, and encourages clients to seek regular health screenings.

4. Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease disproportionately affects women, with two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients being female. Although research is ongoing, factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, and even lifestyle are believed to influence the risk.

How STRONGHER Can Help:
Cognitive health is a key component of our STRONGHER program. Mental stimulation activities and regular physical exercise help maintain cognitive function. Our program also offers nutritional advice for brain health, as well as strategies for maintaining social connections and cognitive exercises to keep your brain sharp as you age.

5. Unintentional injury- Accidents

In 2022, accidents—classified as unintentional injuries—were the third leading cause of death among women in the United States, resulting in 227,039 fatalities across all populations. Among women, these incidents encompass motor vehicle collisions, falls, and other unforeseen events, often leading to significant physical impairments and long-term health challenges.

How STRONGHER Can Help:
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process following such accidents. It aids in restoring mobility, alleviating pain, and preventing chronic complications. For instance, tailored rehabilitation programs can address balance issues, enhance strength, and improve joint function, thereby reducing the risk of future falls and promoting overall well-being. By integrating specialized physical therapy services, your company can provide essential support to women recovering from accidents, facilitating their journey towards regaining independence and improving quality of life.