Men and women might differ in a variety of the ways, but some of the most significant ones are health-related. While there are certain diseases–like breast cancer– that are more commonly associated with women, just as others are with men, there are other conditions that disproportionately affect females that aren't quite as obvious.
These health problems, which range from very treatable ailments to more serious autoimmune disorders, are less easily recognized– meaning some women could be suffering for years before being officially diagnosed.
Since it's important for everyone to stay informed (and as attuned to their body as possible) we rounded up 5 illnesses that could be affecting you–or a woman in your family–more than you think. Learn more about them below:
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes the body's immune system to attack healthy tissues, affecting an individual's joints and organs. Though no one knows what causes it, an astonishing 90 percent of the people with lupus are women, according to the Lupus Foundation of America.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Women are four times more likely to develop Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which the CDC describes as a disorder in which people experience overwhelming exhaustion that isn't helped by bed rest. Unfortunately, it's still unclear why, although it's possible that differences in brain chemistry and hormones play a role.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS, which can cause cramping, gas, and diarrhea among other symptoms, also impacts women more than men. According to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, there are to 3.5 million annual doctors visits for IBS in the U.S. each year (and many more are unreported) and up to 65 percent of the individuals who report having IBS are women. Although it's still unclear why, it's thought certain hormones could be a cause.
Celiac disease
Celiac disease causes a negative immune reaction to eating glute, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. As reported by the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, between 60 and 70 percent of the individuals diagnosed with celiac are women. Why is important to look out for?The average age of diagnosis is 45, meaning the condition could've caused damage to the body and reproductive system already.
STDs
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health , there are approximately19 million new sexually transmitted infections occur in the U.S. each year, and while they affect both men and women, women have more frequent and more serious health problems from them than men. Why? Women often don't show symptons until the condition gets serious.
