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March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the achievements of women and their lasting impact on history, culture, and society. It is also a good moment to check in on something that helps power those contributions every day: women’s health.
Celebrating progress and protecting your well-being can go hand in hand. Your future self is part of the story, too.
The Quiet Power Move: Preventive Care
Women’s health is not just about treating problems that arise. Preventative care helps you stay ahead, even when you feel fine. It focuses on keeping you well and catching concerns early, and it is distinct from visits for illness or injury.
Think of it as maintenance, not emergency repairs. A little attention now can save a lot of hassle later.
A Quick Reality Check
A little awareness can go a long way:
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. In 2023, it caused 304,970 deaths, about 1 in 5 female deaths.
- High blood pressure is also common, affecting about 44% of adult women
- Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the U.S., and about 1 in 8 women will get it in their lifetime.
If you are reading this as a partner, friend, son, or brother, consider this a reminder for you, too. Check in with the women in your life and encourage that next routine visit.
What is Preventative Care for Women?
Women’s preventive care looks different across life stages, but it often includes:
- Routine wellness visits and health history updates
- Screenings and lab work based on age and risk
- Blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes checks
- Vaccines and preventative counseling
Preventive care is not about doing everything at once. It is about choosing the right next step for you, with guidance from your provider.
Where USFHP Comes In
Women’s History Month is a meaningful reminder, and caring for your health is one way to carry that momentum forward all year. US Family Health Plan (USFHP) supports women’s health through access to care and preventive services, including routine checkups that help you stay on track long term.
So, what is one small health check-in you can put on the calendar this month?
By: Yusra Akhundzadah