If you've picked up a copy of Redbook recently, or caught the latest Halle Berry movie, you know that is possible to look good after the age of 40. You might have even heard the saying "40 is the new 30."Well, while it is possible to retain a youthful glow and a joie-de-vivre that belies your years, women over 40 have a unique set of health issues that should not be ignored in favor of makeup tips and airbrushing. Middle age comes with its own unique set of medical concerns.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women over 40. That statistic alone should be more than enough reason to regularly consult your physician or cardiologist about your cardiac health, especially if you have a high-risk lifestyle or a family history of heart disease.
You can also reduce your susceptibility to heart disease by maintaining an active lifestyle, quitting smoking, lowering stress and researching alternative birth control measures.
Women of all ages should perform regular breast self-examinations, but if you are a woman over 40 mammograms should be an annual part of your preventative health routine.
Breast cancer is a terrible disease, and early detection increases the number of treatment options and the chances for success.
The National Cancer Institute estimates that 1 in 7 women will have breast cancer at some point; don't cede this awful affliction more power than it already has.
In general, putting your health first is crucial, especially as you get older. If you are a woman over 40 (or under 40!), don't let the exigencies of jobs, families and friends prevent you from making sure your body is in top working order.
Remember: You can always replace your job or family. You can't replace your body.
By : Josephine_Pizarro
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