Women are built differently than men. Thus, women are susceptible to different types of health concerns and disorders that they should be alert about. Women tend to live longer than men statistically, however, women tend to neglect their health more. Focused on their homes and families, they will often overlook key signs that they are experiencing health issues.

So, what are the top five health issues that women should be concerned about?

Health Issues

No. 1 Heart Disease

The CDC reports that 29 percent of female deaths are a result of heart disease. Women tend to be underdiagnosed as they do not take key factors, such as shortness of breath, problems in climbing stairs, chest pain, jaw pain and nausea in mind as symptoms. Often, once this condition is caught, it’s already too late, so prevention and early detection is imperative.

No. 2 Cancers (Uterine, Ovarian and Breast)

Prevention is especially key in dealing with these types of cancers, which are all prevalent in women. Uterine is the fourth most common cancer among women. Symptoms include abnormal bleeding and/or discharge and pelvic pain. Ovarian cancer kills more than any type of reproductive cancer. Symptoms include gastrointestinal pain or disorders, appetite change or loss, abnormal bleeding and pelvic/back pain. Breast cancer, just behind skin cancer, is the most common cancer in American women, with abnormal lumps being the most frequent symptom. The earlier these cancers are detected, the higher the survival rate, so pay close attention to your body’s changes and practice regular, monthly self-breast exams. Women 45+ should get annual mammograms.

No. 3 Depression

Women fall into a much higher bracket than men when it comes to depression- nearly double at 12 million compared to 6 million men, statistically across the United States. Women need sustenance and when they are feeling lonely or vulnerable, or experience hormonal shifts- like around pregnancy or menopause- they are more likely to fall into depression. Symptoms of depression include: persistent sadness, irritability, inability to sleep and lack of concentration.

No. 4 Osteoporosis

Women suffer from osteoporosis much more than men (80 percent) and are more susceptible to this condition as they approach menopause. Already having smaller and thinner bones vs. men, estrogen decrease during menopause makes bones more vulnerable to damage. A woman’s likelihood of breaking a hip is just as high as the risk of developing uterine, ovarian and breast cancers. Speaking to your doctor about when it’s time to start taking supplements and how to practice healthy living can help prevent developing osteoporosis.

No. 5 Autoimmune Disease

Of 50 million Americans living with autoimmune disorders, 75 percent of those are women. Autoimmune disorders are a category, as there are many different diseases that fall under this umbrella. Autoimmune diseases cover a broad spectrum of the medical field, including: Rheumatology, endocrinology, hematology, neurology, cardiology, gastroenterology and dermatology. Autoimmunity disorders are cited as one of the top ten killers in women. Because the categories are so vast, there are various symptoms to look for depending on which autoimmune disorder you may be suffering from. Speaking to your doctor about your risks in developing autoimmune disorders and prevention is imperative.

Regular check ups and open communication with your doctor in regards to your lifestyle, eating habits, medical history and concerns is the most important step in tackling any of the aforementioned health issues. Remember, when a doctor is able to detect and diagnose your disorder early, your odds of being able to treat it successfully are much higher. So don’t ignore symptoms and don’t hold back when you’re speaking to your doctor.