Women are often the health managers of their households. They remind family members about doctors’ appointments, monitor medications, and notice when loved ones aren't feeling their best. Yet, when it comes to their own wellbeing, many women wait until symptoms appear before seeking medical advice.
The challenge is that some of the most common health conditions affecting women can develop silently.
According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), nearly one in four Indian women aged 15-49 is overweight or obese, while a significant proportion has elevated blood sugar levels or high blood pressure. Many of these conditions can develop quietly, often without noticeable symptoms.
Dr Monica Shashank, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, notes that women frequently delay health check-ups because they are busy caring for others, often assuming that feeling healthy means they are healthy. However, conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cervical abnormalities, thyroid disorders and even some cancers may not show clear warning signs in their early stages, making regular screenings essential.
This is why preventive healthcare is so important. Routine screenings can help identify potential concerns early, often before symptoms begin affecting daily life. Blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, cervical screenings, breast examinations and bone health assessments can offer valuable insights into overall wellbeing.
Women also move through unique life stages, from menstruation and pregnancy to perimenopause and menopause, each of which can bring specific health considerations that deserve attention rather than being dismissed as a normal part of ageing.
Looking after your health is not about expecting bad news. It is about giving yourself the same care and consideration that you readily offer others. After all, prevention is not just better than cure, it often makes all the difference.