Know Your Numbers, Manage Your Risk

Know Your Numbers, Manage Your Risk

Some scary numbers:
9,780 female deaths in 2011 (nearly 27 per day) in Australia
90% of Australian women have at least one risk factor
50% have two or three risk factors

It's not breast cancer or ovarian cancer, it's heart disease, and it's Australia's single biggest cause of death in both women and men.

Now one promising number:
90% of your heart disease risk is 'modifiable", that is based on factors that you can take control of

You can't control your age, or any genetic predispositions you might have, but the majority of heart disease risk factors are things you can do something about:
Smoking, and being exposed to second-hand smoke

Smoking increases your risk of heart attack, stroke and peripheral vascular disease – not to mention lung diseases and a host of cancers. 2-5 years after quitting, your risk of heart attack and stroke drops significantly.

High total blood cholesterol

A healthy total cholesterol level for most adults is below 4.0 mmol/L. Often people with high cholesterol levels show no symptoms, so have your levels checked regularly - even if you have a healthy diet, weight and level of activity.

High blood pressure

Normal blood pressure is usually less than 120/80 mmHg. Have yours checked regularly, and discuss your individual blood pressure target with a doctor. This is especially important if you have diabetes or high cholesterol.

Diabetes

Discuss your risk of diabetes with your doctor and be tested if needed. It's important to take diabetes medicine as prescribed by your doctor, to manage your blood glucose levels. The normal range for blood glucose (when fasting) is about 4-6 mmol/L.

Lack of physical activity

Aim for a total of 30 min. moderately intense activity, such as brisk walking, on most days.

Excess body weight, especially around the stomach

Aim first to prevent excess weight gain, whatever weight you are. Then make long-term, sustainable plans for achieving and maintaining a body mass index (BMI) of 20-25.

Depression and social isolation

Depression can be treated with medical and non-medical therapies. If you're having trouble coping or functioning, act early and talk to a health professional.

Published with the permission of the Jean Hailes Foundation for Women's Health

Tollfree number 1800 JEAN HAILES (532 642) for women seeking further health information www.JeanHailes.org.au