A ladies' game plan for a healthy life ahead

Breast cancer

Even if you’re living a healthy lifestyle, cancer cells can develop in anyone. Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer that affects women. When the cancer cells start their development in the breast, it can spread quickly to the rest of the body. It is one of the most fast-spreading diseases that affect women globally. Though uncommon, it is still possible to get breast cancer while in your 20s and 30s.^[1]

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is a sexually-transmitted disease that can occur in women who have the human papilloma virus (HPV).^[2] HPV infections are so common that many men and women experience it at least once in their lives. As HPV rarely shows any symptoms, it is harder to detect and hence more dangerous. If left unchecked, HPV can result in ovarian and cervical cancer.

Tackling these health risks

Stay ahead and avoid these risks from an early age. Going for regular health checks helps keep your mind at ease. Once you turn 40, it’s highly recommended to start going for yearly mammograms due to higher cancer risks. Drinking less alcohol,^[3] exercising regularly and smoking less will go a long way in protecting you against diseases. You can also stay vigilant by monitoring yourself for any unnatural lumps or pain.

The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing cervical cancer and precancerous growths. Getting the vaccine before turning 26 gives you extra protection. Ward off cancer by continuing to get regular pap smear tests from the ages of 21 to 29, and regular HPV tests after hitting 30.^[4]

Taking birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy could increase your risk of getting terminal illnesses. Long-term use of oral contraceptives may also increase risk of cervical cancer, so you should consult your doctor on any possible alternatives.

Hormone replacement therapy for a few years could also increase your risk of breast cancer. Opt for non-hormonal options or discuss with your doctor if you can lower your dosage.^[5]

Even antibiotics used to reduce acne and oily skin may result in harmful side effects, such as nausea and mild depression. Choose natural healing methods and reduce reliance on pills whenever you can.

Other than staying fit and healthy, getting health insurance should be part of your game plan. Should anything happen to you, health insurance can protect you from unprecedented medical costs.

Here’s some instances when you should get health insurance.

While you are still healthy

Insurance premiums increase after you are diagnosed with a serious illness. Most insurance plans do not even cover you for pre-existing medical conditions. Getting insurance while you’re healthy can hence help you to avoid high premiums. 

You have a family history of illnesses

Breast cancer, diabetes and other serious illnesses are often genetically inherited. If many of your relatives have these diseases, you’ll have a higher risk of getting them too. Health insurance can protect you from high treatment costs if you purchase it early. 

Before you start a family

Falling ill while you’re pregnant puts another life at risk. Asthma, diabetes and chickenpox

are just some examples of pre-existing conditions that can cause complications during pregnancy.
Getting insurance before you’re pregnant can help to cover medical costs for both you and your child.

Make the most of your best years without worrying about health issues. Find an insurance plan that suits you here or here.

^[1] https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/young_women/index.htm

^[2] https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/cervical-cancer/risk-factors

^[3] https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/breast-prevention-pdq#_12

^[4] https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Cervical-Cancer-Screening?IsMobileSet=false

^[5] https://www.breastcancer.org/risk/factors/hrt