Top 3 Health Issues in Young Females
Many health conditions can affect kids during their pre-teen and teenage years, and some can have life-long consequences. Lets discuss three of most pressing Health Issues in Females:
Obesity
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 14.4 million children and adolescents in the world are obese.
Girls who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk for developing chronic health conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Weight can also impact a girl’s reproductive health, increasing their risk for abnormal periods and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS can cause excessive acne, body hair growth, and infertility.
Fortunately, teens can lower their risk of developing infertility and chronic illnesses by making better choices about their diet and adding more physical activity to their day. Our providers also offer resources to help adolescents and teens maintain a healthy weight in the long term.
Eating disorders
On the opposite side of obesity, many teens are obsessed with their appearance and fears of being obese.
Two common eating disorders among teen girls include bulimia and anorexia. Both conditions can lead to significant health complications, such as diabetes, organ failure, and premature death. Eating disorders can also interfere with a girl’s fertility because they can cause irregular periods or periods that stop entirely.
Routine visits with our gynecology team allow us to identify early warning signs of an eating disorder. Our providers provide caring and empathetic support to adolescents and teenagers who are dealing with weight, self-esteem, or eating disorder issues. Our providers offer caring and empathetic support to adolescents and teenagers who are dealing with weight, self-esteem, or eating disorder issues.
Depression
When we talk about most crucial health issues in young females, By mid-adolescence, girls are twice as likely as boys to receive a diagnosis for a mood disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
Untreated mood and mental health conditions can have an impact not only on a teen’s mental health but also on their physical health. With early intervention, adolescents and teens can get symptoms, such as hopelessness, intrusive thoughts, and constant worries, under control.
While we don’t specialize in treating mental health issues, the Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group team can screen for depression and anxiety and refer patients to a specialist for treatment. We can also address mental health concerns that occur because of hormone changes.
Open the lines of communication for better health
The best way for a teen to stay on top of their health is to attend regular checkups with a primary physician and with our gynecologists. We can identify potential health issues in the earliest stages when they’re usually easier to treat.
Developing an open and honest line of communication helps us give teens the right tools to be healthy, happy, and prosperous. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group today.
