Is prioritizing your health a struggle? If so, you're not alone. A Hologic-Gallup survey on women's health conducted in April 2024 found that over six in 10 U.S. women admitted they find it challenging to put their health first. When asked why, 72% of the women answered that it feels too overwhelming.

However, prioritizing your health doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Often, the hardest part is just getting started. That's where the women's health team at Skagit Regional Health can help. To assist you in getting started, we've put together five simple ways you can prioritize your health starting now.

1. Schedule yearly wellness exams

Yearly exams are crucial in maintaining your overall health. These appointments typically include a health risk assessment, physical exam and medication review. They're also the perfect time to discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.

“As your care team, we’re here to support your health and wellness journey,” said Katheryn DelBello, MD, OB/GYN at Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon. “Annual checkups give us a complete picture of your health. This helps us create the best plan to keep your body and mind healthy, and identify any potential risk factors early on.”

If it’s been over a year since your last wellness exam, now’s a great time to schedule one. Reach out to your primary care provider’s office to set up an appointment.

Need a primary care provider? Call 360-848-5555 to find a Skagit Regional Health provider near you.

2. Stay up to date on routine cancer screenings

Routine cancer screenings help detect cancer early—often before you notice any symptoms—giving treatment the best chance of success. The American Cancer Society recommends these guidelines for screenings:

Breast cancer:

• Women ages 40 to 44 can start annual breast cancer screenings with mammograms if they wish to do so.
• Women ages 45 to 54 should have mammograms every year.
• Women ages 55 and older can switch to mammograms every two years, or may continue with yearly screenings.

Colorectal cancer:

• Starting at age 45, people with an average risk for colorectal cancer should begin regular screenings.
• If you’re in good health, continue regular screenings through age 75.
• People over age 85 and in good health should no longer get colorectal cancer screenings.

Cervical cancer:

• Women ages 21 to 25 should begin cervical cancer screenings.
• Women over age 65 and in good health should no longer screen for cervical cancer.

Talk to your primary care provider for specific screening recommendations based on your individual risks and to schedule an appointment.

3. Stay active

The more physically active you are, the greater the health benefits. According to The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, each week women should aim for:

• 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, OR
• 75 minutes (1.25 hours) of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, OR
• A combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, PLUS
• Muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days.

“Any physical activity is better than none. Staying active is essential for women at every stage of life,” says Dr. DelBello. “Talk to your doctor about how to incorporate physical activity into your routine based on your age, life stage and physical abilities.”

4. Incorporate healthy, nutritious foods into your diet

Your digestive health plays a significant role in your overall well-being. Adding healthier foods to your daily meals can lead to positive changes in your health. Focus on eating more plant-based foods, such as fruits, leafy greens, whole grains, lean proteins and legumes (like peas, beans and lentils). Limit processed foods, refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, fried foods and high sodium options.

Here are a few simple goals to get started:

• Swap sugary drinks for water with lemon.
• Add at least one vegetable to each meal.
• Keep a bowl of whole fruit on your kitchen counter for easy snacking.
• Replace butter with olive oil or other healthy oils when cooking.

Small changes can make a difference in your health over time!

5. Manage your stress

When under stress, women are often less likely to prioritize their health. Unmanaged stress can negatively affect women's health and is linked to issues, such as:

• Heart problems
• Headaches and migraines
• Stomach conditions
• Obesidad
• Difficulties getting pregnant
• Menstrual cycle issues

The American Heart Association recommends healthy daily habits to help manage stress more effectively, including:

• Regular exercise to boost mood, energy and sleep.
• Healthy eating with nutritious, well-balanced meals.
• Taking breaks to recharge by stepping away from to-do lists and enjoying hobbies.
• Connecting with family, friends and social groups.
• Getting enough sleep by aiming for seven or more quality hours each night.
• Practicing meditation to help calm the mind.

“If stress becomes too overwhelming, reach out to a healthcare professional,” says Dr. DelBello. “Mental health is just as important as physical, and should always be prioritized.”

Your health is important, and there's no better time to prioritize it than now. At Skagit Regional Health, we're here to support you every step of the way.