When it comes to beauty, 40-somethings are giving women in their 20s a run for their money. With Esquire naming 42-year-old Halle Berry "Sexiest Woman Alive"?? and national magazine covers showing off bikini-clad actresses Julia Louis Dreyfus and Valerie Bertinelli (both 48 years old!), these women are redefining sexiness and what the new 40-something lady looks like. However, experts warn that appearing healthy and beautiful on the outside doesn't make women immune to age-related health issues, says New York-based Ob/Gyn Dr Shari Brasner, assistant clinical professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.
Heart disease, osteoporosis and cancer are common concerns for aging women, but did you know that unintended pregnancy is a top health concern, too? If you are nearing or over 40, keep the following health issues in mind.
Breast health
Dr Brasner stresses the importance of regular mammograms. "Breast self exams are recommended for women of all ages; however, mammograms should be a part of a yearly preventative health schedule for women over 40," she says. "Early detection of breast cancer means more conservative treatment options." The National Cancer Institute estimates that just over 13 percent of women (one in seven) will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in their lives. In addition to regular checkups, understanding your risk factors can help you make changes in your lifestyle to reduce your chances of becoming a statistic and developing this potentially fatal disease.
Osteoporosis
This potentially debilitating bone disease has become more of a health concern for all women, not just older ladies. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, woman are four times more likely than men to develop osteoporosis, and it can strike at any age. If you have a family history of osteoporosis or broken bones, are thin and small framed, have irregular periods or are entering early menopause, and are Caucasian, Asian or Latino, talk to your doctor about a bone density test or DEXA scan. Diet changes, weight-bearing exercise and early detection of weak bones can prevent fractures and the progression of the disease.