Oddly enough, the health calendar celebrates two dates usually considered life extremes in the same week: on the one hand, Grandparents’ Day, commemorated on August 28, and tomorrow, alluding to the beginning of life, celebrated by pregnant women. With these characteristics considered sacred by some, we take this opportunity to mention diseases that may predominate during these stages of life.
Like much of the world, Mexico’s population is aging rapidly. This demographic phenomenon presents a host of health challenges. Older adults are at higher risk for a variety of chronic diseases and health conditions that require longer lifespans to receive specialized care.
Diseases that our grandparents may suffer from include cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure, coronary heart disease and stroke. Prevention by adopting a healthy low-sodium diet, weight control, and regular physical activity is key to maintaining cardiovascular health.
Type 2 diabetes is another chronic disease that disproportionately affects older Mexicans. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, following an appropriate meal plan, and taking medication when necessary are essential to managing diabetes.
Chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary fibrosis are also common among older adults, more so in the post-pandemic period.
Older adults should avoid exposure to tobacco smoke, get vaccinated against flu and pneumonia, and seek medical attention early if they develop persistent respiratory symptoms.
Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, place a significant burden on older adults and their families. Although there is no definitive cure, early diagnosis, emotional support, and specific treatments can help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
Diseases such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis are often common. Joint degeneration and loss of bone density can lead to pain and disability. Maintaining a healthy body weight, engaging in low-intensity exercise, and consuming adequate calcium and vitamin D are essential strategies for preventing and treating these diseases.
health during pregnancy
Of course, having a full and quality life is an ongoing work that begins in the womb, and adequate prenatal care is critical to ensuring a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby, which is why I’ve listed the minimum standards of care that every pregnant woman should follow:
Regular prenatal checkups: These checkups will allow you to monitor the progress of the pregnancy, check the health of the fetus, and catch any potential problems early.
Nutritious diet: It is important to maintain a balanced and nutrient-dense diet.
Iron and folic acid supplements: Taking folic acid supplements before conception and during the first trimester can help prevent neural tube defects in fetuses. In addition, iron supplementation is also important to prevent anemia in pregnant women and to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the baby.
Avoiding Harmful Substances: Abstinence from alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs during pregnancy is essential for healthy fetal development.
Moderate exercise: Staying active during pregnancy can improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote faster recovery after delivery.
Get enough rest: Getting enough sleep is essential for the health of both mother and baby.
Dental Hygiene: It is important to maintain good oral hygiene because pregnancy increases the risk of dental problems.
Stress management: Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques may be beneficial.
Prenatal education: Attending a prenatal education class can provide valuable information about childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care.
Open and honest communication with your doctor: Maintaining an open and honest communication with your doctor can allow any concerns or unusual symptoms to be addressed early on.
Quality life and healthy efforts are daily actions starting from conception and should accompany us throughout our lives.
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