Women’s health in focus: Are we paying enough attention?

You feel more tired than usual, maybe your back aches or your memory slips now and then. It’s easy to brush these off as part of getting older or just being busy. But when was the last time you paused to check in on your health?

For many women, caring for others comes naturally. But without noticing, your own wellbeing can quietly slip down the list. Listening to those small signals and making time for regular checks is one of the best ways to protect your health and keep living life fully while enjoying the things you love, for longer.

Dementia has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in Australian women. Stroke, lung cancer, osteoporosis and mental health disorders are also among the top conditions affecting women’s lives.

Understanding these illnesses, their signs and their impact is the first step towards prevention and better outcomes. Equally important is knowing where to find support from community campaigns to services that practical help for women at different stages of life.

Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is now the number one cause of death among Australian women. Women are not only more likely to live longer than men but also more likely to develop dementia. It affects memory, thinking and behaviour, gradually interfering with daily activities and independence.

The number of people living with dementia is projected to double by 2054 as the population ages. While there is no cure, early diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments and community support can help women and their families plan ahead and maintain quality of life for as long as possible.

Read: What is Dementia – NDIS dementia support through Leora Healthcare

For a long time, heart disease was considered something that mostly affected men. But in Australia today, it’s actually the second leading cause of death for women.

One reason it’s often missed is that the signs don’t always look the same. While men are more likely to feel sudden chest pain, women might notice things like:

Because these symptoms can seem small or easy to blame on stress, women sometimes don’t realise their heart needs urgent attention.

The good news is, there are simple steps women can take to protect their hearts. Regular check-ups, keeping blood pressure and cholesterol in a healthy range and moving your body each day all make a real difference. Most importantly, knowing your own risk factors and recognising the early warning signs means you can act sooner and get the right care. Awareness really can save lives.

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced. Without enough blood and oxygen, brain cells start to die, which can cause lasting damage. The effects can be serious, from weakness or paralysis, to problems with speech, thinking or daily activities.

For women, the risk of stroke increases as you age, especially if conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes are present. That’s why it’s so important to know the warning signs. The FAST test is an easy way to remember them:

Getting medical help quickly can make a huge difference in survival and recovery.

Cancer is still one of the biggest health challenges for Australian women. While breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed, lung cancer has now become the leading cause of cancer deaths. Ovarian and cervical cancers, though less common, are also significant concerns.

Thankfully, many cancers can be detected early and some can even be prevented. National programs like BreastScreen Australia and the National Cervical Screening Program save thousands of lives each year. Everyday choices, like quitting smoking, staying active and keeping up with regular health checks, also play a powerful role in lowering risk.

Most common cancers diagnosed in Australian women:

Osteoporosis is often called the “silent disease” because bones can weaken without any clear symptoms until a fracture happens. For women, the risk is especially high. In fact, around half of women over 60 will experience a fracture due to osteoporosis. These injuries can cause pain, limit independence, increase hospital visits and affect mental wellbeing.

A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and bone density checks in midlife all help protect bone health. For older women, fall prevention strategies and supportive care are important in staying active and independent.

Mental health is another area where women face unique challenges. Anxiety and depression occur more often in women than in men, shaped by biological, social and financial factors. Life stages such as pregnancy, perimenopause and menopause can also make women more vulnerable.

When mental health challenges combine with physical conditions like chronic pain, menopause or long-term illness, daily life can become even harder to manage. Getting professional care, leaning on family and community and having safe spaces to talk all make recovery easier. Consistent support and social connection help women look after their health and feel stronger day to day.

Autoimmune diseases affect about 5% of Australians, and around 75% of those living with an autoimmune condition are women. This includes conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. These are lifelong illnesses that often appear in early adulthood, disrupting work, family and social life.

Alongside autoimmune disorders, women also face unique health conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Both can affect reproductive health and overall wellbeing. Early diagnosis, specialist care and greater awareness can significantly improve quality of life, yet many women still face delays in receiving answers and treatment.

Awareness is only the first step. The next is making sure you’re up to date with the checks and supports that help you stay healthy, independent, and informed.

Around menopause, heart health risk rises. Most women aged 45 to 79 should book a heart health check with their GP, while Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are advised to start earlier, from 30 to 35. Many practices bulk bill, making checks free. Learn more at the Heart Foundation Australia.

From age 50, it’s important to discuss osteoporosis risk with your GP. Bone density scans are Medicare-subsidised for women over 70 or those with risk factors. More information is available at Healthy Bones Australia.

Women aged 50 to 74 are invited to a free mammogram every two years through BreastScreen Australia. Women 40 to 49 can also access free screening on request.

All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 should have a cervical screening test every five years if results are normal. Details are available at the National Cervical Screening Program.

Australians aged 45 to 74 receive a free home test kit every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Anxiety and depression are common, but support is available. GPs can prepare a mental health care plan for subsidised sessions with a psychologist. Immediate help is also available from Beyond Blue and Lifeline (13 11 14).

Bladder leakage after childbirth or menopause is common but treatable. GPs can connect women with continence nurses or pelvic physiotherapists. Find out more at the Continence Foundation of Australia.

The average age of menopause in Australia is 51, though symptoms can begin earlier. The Jean Hailes menopause checklist helps track changes and guide conversations with your GP.

If changes in memory, language or daily function appear, early assessment is crucial. Visit Dementia Australia for support.

Women’s health is shaped by a mix of conditions, some preventable, some manageable and all easier to address when caught early. Regular checks, open conversations with health professionals and support from trusted organisations can make a real difference.

We at Leora believe these steps are not just part of a checklist but a pathway to living longer, healthier and more independent lives. And when extra support is needed, whether through the NDIS, aged care or nursing care, we’re here to walk that journey with you. Don’t hesitate to reach out!

Women’s Health Week is a good reminder to pause and put your health first, but caring for yourself should never be limited to just one week or one month. Every day is an opportunity to prioritise your wellbeing, and we’re here to support you along the way. 💜