Top Health Risks for Women

There are several different health risks for women throughout their lives. Let's take a closer look at the top 10 health risk for women and what you can do to avoid them.

1) Heart disease - This is the top of the list for women's health risks. It affects women just as much as men. A healthy diet of vegetables, fruits, proteins like fish and nuts, and fiber can help with this risk. Smoking and stress should also be avoided, and a steady exercise routine will also help.

2) Cancer -This is next on the list of health risks for women. Surprisingly, lung cancer ranks above breast cancer in women's health risks. Avoiding high-fat foods, smoking, and extensive exposure to the sun will also decrease this risk.

3) Stroke - Some factors cannot be controlled. A family history of strokes, aging, and in some cases race and gender are unavoidable. But a regimen of exercise and a healthy diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, along with avoiding tobacco products, can help keep this in check.

4) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - This is a combination of lung problems which include emphysema and bronchitis. Naturally, avoiding any tobacco use is of utmost importance. Staying away from asbestos and chemicals is a very good idea as well.

5) Alzheimer's Disease - There is no cure yet for this disease, unfortunately. The best way to avoid the symptoms is to prevent high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterol from becoming problems. Head injuries are a major contributing factor as well. Keeping mentally stimulated will also help to decrease the risk of contracting this disease.

6) Injuries - Automobile accidents are a big factor in health risks for women. Using seat belts at all times is a good idea. Avoiding falls in the home and being careful of chemical poisoning will further ensure protection in this area.

7) Type 2 Diabetes - This is the most common diabetes, and it affects the body's usage of glucose. Heart disease, nerve damage, and blindness can be the results of this component of women's health risks. Maintaining a healthy weight through common sense diets and exercise are good tips.

8) Influenza - The common flu is not necessarily a killer, but for those with weak immune systems or chronic illness it can cause serious health risks for women. A yearly flu vaccine is commonly recommended.

9) Kidney Disease - A healthy diet low in salt will help. Diabetes and high blood pressure contribute in most health risks for women, as they do with kidney disease. Regular activity will help as well.

10) Blood Poisoning - This serious factor in women's health risks usually comes from infections in the lungs, urinary tract, and the pelvis. Staying clean, washing hands and skin frequently and cleaning properly after urination and sexual activity are good preventative measures.