Discussing women’s health, especially in the context of Puerto Rico, is of utmost importance because women face specific risks. In this article, we explore five diseases that affect Puerto Rican women at high rates and strategies to prevent them.
1. Cardiovascular (Heart) Diseases
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in Puerto Rico. Risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and physical inactivity are common among women. Strategies to prevent it:
- Choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoid salt and sugar in excess.
- Get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week, such as walking, dancing, or group workouts. If you divide this into 30-minute sessions, you can be active five days a week.
- Also, preventive health tests like regular cholesterol and blood pressure checks are a good way to keep an eye on any changes in these levels.
2. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Puerto Rico. This means that, on average, nearly 1 in every 1,000 women in Puerto Rico is diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Early detection is key for better survival rates. There are several methods for early detection:
- Perform self-exams every month to check for changes in your breasts.
- The general recommendation is to get a mammogram every two years starting at the age of 40, or as directed by your doctor.
3. Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes affects a large number of women in Puerto Rico. It accounted for 20% of diagnoses in 2023. Factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity increase the risk of developing this chronic disease. Strategies to prevent this condition include:
- Eat foods rich in fiber and limit added sugars. Choose healthier options instead.
- Keep a healthy weight to lower your risk of diabetes.
- Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days.
4. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a common disease among women, especially after menopause. This disease weakens bones and makes them more likely to break. Adopting any of the following habits lowers the risk of developing the condition:
- Get more calcium and vitamin D by eating dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods.
- Do resistance exercises to strengthen your bones, such as light weightlifting or using resistance bands. They help build muscle and bone density.
- Avoid tobacco, cigarettes, and vaping (e-cigarettes), as these can make bone loss worse.
5. Depression and anxiety
Mood disorders are more common among women than men in Puerto Rico. Social and economic aspects influence the onset of these disorders. You can prevent their prevalence with healthy habits:
- Foster healthy relationships and seek support from friends and family.
- Take part in activities that promote emotional well-being, like art or group exercises.
- Seek help from a mental health professional. Consider therapy.
Prevention is essential to address these diseases, which are very common among women in Puerto Rico. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and getting regular medical checkups, women can protect their health and well-being. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Visit your doctor, take care of your health, and remember that health is power!
TSS-MKT–5960-2025-B