On International Women’s Day, conversations often focus on empowerment, equality, and opportunity. But one of the most powerful forms of empowerment is good health.
Doctors say that women’s health should not be treated as a one-time concern but as a continuous journey that evolves from adolescence to old age.
According to Dr Koulsoum Houssein, Consultant General Medicine at Holy Family Hospital, women’s healthcare must follow a “life-course approach.” This means looking at health needs at every stage of life, from teenage years and reproductive age to menopause and beyond.
Many women, especially in India, tend to put their family’s needs before their own. Busy schedules, caregiving responsibilities, and lack of awareness often become barriers to preventive care.
However, doctors warn that ignoring early signs and skipping routine check-ups can lead to serious health complications later.
WHY A LIFE-COURSE APPROACH MATTERS
A life-course approach recognises that women’s health needs change over time. For example, young women may need guidance on nutrition and menstrual health, while women in their 30s and 40s may require screening for anaemia, diabetes, and reproductive health conditions.
After menopause, the focus may shift to bone health and heart disease prevention.
Instead of seeking treatment only when symptoms appear, experts recommend regular health monitoring at every stage. This proactive method helps detect problems early and improve long-term outcomes.
THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR SCREENING
Screening plays a key role in preventing serious diseases. Doctors advise women to undergo regular tests for:
- Anaemia
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Breast cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Mental health concerns
Conditions such as heart disease may present differently in women compared to men. Symptoms can be subtle, such as fatigue, breathlessness, or mild chest discomfort. Because of this, awareness becomes even more important.
Early detection not only improves survival rates but also reduces the financial and emotional burden of advanced illness.
LIFESTYLE AND PREVENTIVE CARE CANNOT BE IGNORED
Preventive care goes beyond medical tests. It includes:
- Balanced nutrition
- Regular physical activity
- Stress management
- Immunisation when required
Dr Houssein emphasises that many women delay routine check-ups because they feel they “don’t have time.” However, investing time in health today can prevent major health problems in the future.
Simple lifestyle changes such as eating iron-rich foods, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress can significantly reduce disease risk.
CONDITIONS THAT NEED GREATER AWARENESS
Certain health conditions require more awareness among women:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder that can affect fertility, weight, and metabolic health.
- Osteoporosis: A condition where bones become weak and fragile, especially after menopause.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Often underestimated in women, yet it remains one of the leading causes of death globally.
Understanding symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can prevent complications. Access to accurate information and supportive healthcare services is essential.
A HEALTHY WOMAN STRENGTHENS SOCIETY
Experts say that a woman’s health affects not just her personal well-being but also her family and community. Women often serve as caregivers and pillars of support in households.
When a woman remains healthy, she is better able to contribute socially, economically, and emotionally.
On International Women’s Day, doctors are urging women to make their own health a priority. Preventive care, awareness, and timely medical support can make a significant difference.
In the end, empowering women begins with ensuring they have the knowledge, access, and confidence to take charge of their health — at every stage of life.
