South Africa’s leading virtual health mobile app, Unu Health, has emphasised the critical need for women to prioritise their health and well-being beyond National Women’s Month.
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa, cardiovascular diseases are a significant concern for women in South Africa, with heart disease accounting for 1 in 4 deaths among women.
Tania Joffe, founder of Unu Health, says women, regarded as the backbone of society, often neglect their own well-being while caring for others, suggesting a heightened focus on certain diseases.
Joffe says these alarming statistics highlight the need for increased awareness and proactive measures.
The mobile health app advocates for a holistic approach to women’s health, focussing on physical, mental, and emotional well-being, regular check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and stress management.
“Women play an indispensable role in our communities as carers, nurturers, and leaders. However, they frequently put their own health on the back burner, which can have serious consequences. It’s vital that we encourage and support women in making their health a priority.
“Heart disease is often perceived as a male problem, but it’s equally a threat to women. Regular screenings, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle are essential for maintaining heart health.”
Common Symptoms of Heart Disease in Women
Chest pain or discomfort: This is the most common symptom of heart disease, and many women say they experience a squeezing or fullness sensation.
Shortness of Breath: Women often report difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity, but even for simple activities like climbing the stairs.
Nausea and light-headedness: These symptoms can accompany chest pain, especially during a heart attack.
It is also reported that diabetes is the leading cause of death among South African women, surpassing even cardiovascular diseases, according to the International Diabetes Federation.
Women with diabetes are also at a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.
“Diabetes management requires consistent effort and lifestyle adjustments. Women need to be vigilant about their blood sugar levels and seek medical advice regularly,” says Joffe.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
Increased Thirst and Urination: Frequent urination and excessive thirst are common signs of high blood sugar levels.
Fatigue: This is not just the I-am-doing-everything-general-woman-exhaustion; this is a more persistent tiredness and lack of energy that can be indicative of diabetes.
Blurry Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses of the eyes to swell, leading to vision problems.
It is reported that autoimmune diseases disproportionately affect women, with conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis being more prevalent among females. While specific statistics for South Africa are limited, global data suggests that women are three times more likely than men to develop an autoimmune condition.
“These diseases can be debilitating and significantly impact the quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial. Women should be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention if they experience any unusual health issues,” Joffe advises.
Common Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases
Fatigue: Extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest is a common symptom of autoimmune diseases.
Joint Pain and Swelling: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause painful, swollen joints.
Skin Rashes: Diseases like lupus often present with distinctive rashes, particularly on the face.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za