A visit to the doctor not only can relieve an aching body, but may also save a life
October 16, 2006
Contact: Todd Harper
Phone: 317-630-7808
Pager: 317-310-5972
Indianapolis, October 16, 2006 – Women face a variety of health issues that are very different than their male counterparts. Of the leading causes of death, women outpace men in six of the top 10 categories, including heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes (According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
In most age groups, women face more chronic conditions in their lifetime, particularly allergies, arthritis and autoimmune diseases than men. In addition, younger women report more back and limb problems than men. Mental health, especially depression, is also a concern among women of all ages.
“Women’s bodies work in very different ways and thus require special attention. Maternity, menopause, osteoporosis and depression can all take a toll, and thus it is important to visit a healthcare provider on a regular basis,” Dr. Ann Zerr, co-medical director, IU National Center of Excellence in Women's Health at Wishard.
Dr. Zerr stressed that with advancements in medicine and science, doctors are learning new ways to treat diseases and conditions that just 10 years ago would have been devastating to hear. Advancements in fighting breast cancer, mental disorders, arthritis, lung cancer and other diseases have given many women a new lease on life.
“It’s important to pay attention to what your body tells you. You shouldn’t overreact and become too stressed, but it is important if you notice something abnormal, whether it is a cough that won’t go away or a lump that causes you alarm, go have it checked,” Dr. Zerr said.
Doctors stress preventive measures, such as exercising regularly, eating a well balanced diet and making positive lifestyle choices, such as avoiding cigarettes and limiting alcohol intake can have an extremely positive impact on one’s health. Some women find it helpful to schedule mammograms and annual exams on or near their birthdays, thus making it easier to remember to visit the doctor.
Wishard Health Services through the IU National Center of Excellence in Women's Health offers a variety of services and programs that assist women in taking the necessary steps toward positive lifestyles, including preventive, surgical, medical and routine healthcare. The Wishard team includes IU School of Medicine faculty, experienced nurses, nurse practitioners and certified behavioral specialists who provide a wide variety of quality services for women and their families.
Services offered at Wishard through the IU National Center of Excellence in Women's Health include the St. Margaret's Diagnostic Breast Center and the St. Margaret's Mobile Mammography Van, the Integrative Pain Center, primary healthcare both within the Center of Excellence and throughout the Wishard system via a network of eight community health centers, and an array of health services offered at the Center for Comprehensive Weight Management.
The Center of Excellence works to develop a coordinated, unified framework in which to provide state-of-the-art clinical care through programs that deliver information about preventive medicine to women and their families.
For more information about the IU National Center of Excellence in Women's Health at Wishard or to find a physician, please call Health Connection at Wishard at (317) 655-2255.