There is a widespread idea among women that breast cancer is the main enemy to be defeated. In fact, they undergo the necessary screenings to identify cancer in the embryonic stage. This is an absolutely correct practice and the result of a great awareness campaign. Yet, few know that the number one cause of death for women is not cancer but this disease we are about to describe.
It is actually a very common health problem that we know well but that we tend to associate with the male gender. The truth, however, is that this affects women for at least 57%. It is important to know this in order to be able to act preventively. Not to mention that it could sensitize us so as to better interpret the signals of our body. In fact, it is found that women realize the onset of this disease with great delay. This compromises the chances of survival. Here then is the need for communication and understanding of this pathology. This is exactly what we intend to do today.
Few people know that the leading cause of death for women is not cancer but this disease
Most of us are convinced that the leading cause of death for women is cancer. Indeed, this is in second place in this dismal ranking. According to estimates, between 175,000 and 185,000 women die each year from cancer. However high this number may seem to us, there is the main cause of death in Europe and Italy to exceed it.
In fact, according to the data collected by ISTAT and the Ministry of Health, the first cause of death among women is cardiovascular disease. So let’s talk about strokes, heart attacks, heart and cerebrovascular diseases. These mostly arise from the age of 45 with the peak between the ages of 85 and 89. Specifically, 11% of women between the ages of 50 and 70 die of cardiovascular problems. 35% belong to the 70-85 range and 53% aged 85 and over. This increased incidence of the disease from the age of 45 goes hand in hand with the normal aging process. In fact, with the onset of menopause, women no longer receive the protection of estrogen and are more susceptible to various diseases.
How to preserve our health
Accomplices several factors, including the belief that cardiovascular problems are purely male, women arrive in hospital with great delay. Furthermore, the symptoms are not as evident as in the male sex. Often there is no pain and discomfort are localized in other areas of the body than those known. It is certain, however, that this risk must be taken into account by making very clear choices. We must have a healthy lifestyle, give up the habit of smoking, eat a balanced diet and exercise. Finally, we do blood tests with a certain consistency and that include glycemic values.
However, let’s not forget to take exams for cancer as well. Although few know that this is the most important factor in preventing breast and colon cancer.