What health issues are women most prone to due to their lifestyle? – The Times of India

Lifestyle-related health issues among women are on the rise, driven by factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, irregular meal timings, unmindful junk food consumption, and, most importantly, stress. As the world grows more complex, so do health concerns, particularly for women, whose well-being is intricately linked to hormonal balance, menstrual health, mental health, and fertility.
Let’s explore some of the key lifestyle-related health concerns affecting women today:
1. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder in women, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles (missed or frequent periods), excessive facial and body hair, scalp hair loss, and unexplained weight gain or difficulty in losing weight. While genetic predisposition plays a role, lifestyle factors such as unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, and poor sleep patterns can exacerbate PCOS symptoms.
2. Obesity
Obesity is a growing concern among urban women due to a lack of exercise, poor dietary habits, and late sleeping hours. Irregular meal timings and an unbalanced diet further contribute to weight gain. While genetics influence body weight, adopting a healthy lifestyle from an early age can help regulate genetic expression and prevent obesity-related complications.
3. Mental health conditions
Anxiety, overthinking, fear, and depression are common mental health concerns among women. Stress is a major contributing factor, but other influences, such as body image issues, low self-confidence, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances, also play a role. Addressing mental well-being is crucial for overall health.
4. Early onset of menstruation
In recent years, the average age of menarche (the onset of menstruation) has shifted from 11–13 years to as early as 9–11 years. This trend is linked to decreased physical activity and unhealthy eating habits, highlighting the role of lifestyle in early puberty.
5. Early menopause
A woman’s menopausal age is largely influenced by her mother’s menopausal history. However, modern lifestyles are causing many women to experience menopause in their early 40s, regardless of family history. Studies suggest that chronic stress and unhealthy living conditions contribute to this early transition.
6. Endometriosis
Endometriosis affects approximately 1 in 10 women worldwide. It causes severe period pain, painful intercourse, bloating, digestive issues, irregular bleeding, and heavy menstrual flow, significantly impacting a woman’s quality of life. While endometriosis is not directly caused by lifestyle factors, lifestyle modifications—such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management—play a crucial role in its management.
7. Infertility
Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive after actively trying for six months to a year. Both male and female factors contribute to infertility, with environmental and lifestyle influences playing a significant role. Even when fertility treatments are required, maintaining a healthy lifestyle improves the chances of success.
8. Metabolic disorders
Women are increasingly susceptible to metabolic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and cholesterol imbalances. These issues are linked to lifestyle choices from adolescence onward. Factors such as family history, PCOS, early menopause, sedentary habits, and addictions increase the risk of developing metabolic disorders.

The way forward: A collective effort for ‘Women’s Health’

The solution to lifestyle-related health concerns among women can be summed up in two words: healthy lifestyle. However, implementing this is easier said than done. It cannot be an individual effort alone; it requires a collective approach involving families, educational institutions, workplaces, and government policies.
Every small step taken toward promoting a healthier lifestyle will contribute to improving women’s overall well-being. Investing in women’s health today ensures a healthier nation tomorrow.
Dr. Sudeshna Ray , Additional Director, Obstetrics & Gynaecology- Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre