Topics of Interest

Bone Health/Osteoporosis

Normal or early menopause (brought about naturally or because of surgery) increases your risk of developing osteoporosis. In addition, women who stop menstruating before menopause because of conditions such as anorexia or bulimia, or because of excessive physical exercise, may also lose bone tissue and develop osteoporosis. (National Osteoporosis Foundation) To learn more about risk factors, lifestyle changes and screening, visit these websites:
http://www.strongwomen.com/newsletter/
http://www.nof.org

Breast Cancer

“The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances that treatment will work. The goal is to find cancers before they start to cause symptoms. The size of a breast cancer and how far it has spread are the most important factors in predicting the outlook for the patient. Most doctors feel that early detection tests for breast cancer save many thousands of lives each year. Following the guidelines given here improves the chances that breast cancer can be found at an early stage and treated successfully.” (American Cancer Society) To learn more about risk factors and screening, review these web sites:
http://www.cancer.org
http://www.cancer.gov

Exercise

“Exercise will not only extend the length of your life; it will improve your quality of living. You will be less likely to develop osteoporosis, cancer, arthritis and chronic diseases associated with obesity. If you need some extra motivation to start or continue an exercise program, you are not alone.” (Strong Women) To learn more about exercise tips, benefits and resources, visit these web sites:
http://www.strongwomen.com/newsletter/

Heart Disease

“Heart disease isn’t just a man’s disease. Heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases are devastating to women, too. In fact, coronary heart disease, which causes heart attack, is the leading cause of death for American women. Many women believe that cancer is more of a threat, but they’re wrong. Nearly twice as many women in the United States die of heart disease and stroke as from all forms of cancer, including breast.” (American Heart Association) To learn more about risk factors and lifestyle changes that contribute to heart health, review these web sites:
http://www.americanheart.org
http://www.womenheart.org

Sexuality

“Understanding the physical changes you and your partner will go through as you age can help you prepare for some of the challenges of maintaining sexual intimacy.” (Mayo Clinic) To learn more about sexuality in midlife, visit these web sites:
http://www.mayoclinic.com
http://www.webmd.com

Weight Management/Nutrition

Having a healthy diet is one of the most important things you can do to help your overall health. Along with physical activity, your diet is the key factor that affects your weight. Having a healthy weight for your height is important. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, breathing problems arthritis, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea (breathing problems while sleeping), osteoarthritis and some cancers.” (US Department of Agriculture) To learn more about healthy eating and weight management, visit these web sites:
http://www.nutrition.gov
http://www.eatright.org