When you’re a young woman in your twenties, it’s easy to think that health problems like colon cancer or high blood pressure are far off concerns. However, many conditions typically associated with older age can actually affect women in their twenties too.
Recent research indicates that some disorders linked to older adults are appearing in younger people, often due to lifestyle choices that increase health risks. By recognizing these prevalent illnesses and their preventable risk factors, you can make changes to lower your chances of developing these issues.
High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” usually shows no symptoms. Yet, it can damage your heart, blood vessels, brain, and kidneys. While it’s less common among women aged 20 to 34, this group is also less likely to be diagnosed and treated. If unchecked, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease and strokes. Hence, keeping an eye on your blood pressure is crucial.
In the United States, it’s estimated that about 3.1 million women have diabetes without realizing it, due to a lack of symptoms. Obesity is a significant cause of diabetes, and younger generations face higher obesity rates than previous ones. Women who are Native American, African-American, or Hispanic are four times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes.
Diabetes not only increases the risk of heart disease later in life, but having gestational diabetes during pregnancy raises the chances of developing type 2 diabetes by 20% to 50% later on. Therefore, regular screenings for type 2 diabetes after giving birth are essential.
There’s been a concerning rise in colon and rectal cancers among young adults. If you see blood in your stool or notice changes in your bowel habits, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider immediately. Young people are less likely to have colorectal cancer, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Regular cancer screenings, like whole-body MRI scans, can help detect issues early.
Although most strokes occur in people over 65, there’s been a spike in strokes among women aged 18 to 34. Strokes are less common in younger women, but they can be more fatal when they occur. This increase is likely due to more cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Pregnancy, birth control pills, and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus also raise the risk.
Brain shrinkage may sound alarming, but it’s a normal part of aging. However, factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and obesity can accelerate brain volume loss. Making heart-healthy choices can protect your brain over time and reduce the risk of heart disease, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Balancing a busy life with school, work, marriage, and parenting can make it hard to focus on your health. Yet, taking the time to care for yourself now can have a significant impact on your well-being later, reducing the risk of the health issues mentioned.