Every time physicians and scientists discover new ways to cure diseases, it seems like there are new diseases or old ones coming back and spreading. Some are important, some aren’t. Some I will get, others I will be able to avoid. So, as a college aged woman, I want to know which illnesses are those I should watch out for. Well, there are three diseases that every single college-aged young woman should be aware of and do her best to avoid.
1. Depression: Depending on the school, medical and social histories, ability to deal with stress, and several other factors, young women can be at greater or less risk for developing depression. However, according to Chris Iliades of Everyday Health, suicide is the second leading cause of death in college-aged students. Because of the neuroanatomy and the structure of female brains, as well as behaviors, women are more likely to develop depression than men. Making sure that you, as a college-aged woman, have access to treatment for depression as well as methods of avoiding its development is more than likely crucial to surviving college.
2. Diseases that one can be vaccinated against (such as influenza): College is full of students touching, interacting and all living on top of each other. Therefore, it is important to watch out for diseases that can be prevented. These include the measles, chickenpox, flu and rubella. Most people are vaccinated against many of these already when they start college, but, if you have the ability to do so, get a vaccination against the flu every year! This will keep you from getting the strain of the flu that is expected to become problematic this year. It would be horrible to get the flu and be stuck in bed for two days. According to the CDC, the vaccines that you get as a child may wear off as you grow into adulthood, so it is important to ensure that any vaccinations that are necessary are up to date.
3. Various STDs: In college, many students move away from home and enter into sexual relationships with people. Having a sexual relationship is perfectly acceptable. However, it is important to beware of the risks that are associated with sexual activity, including disease. To prevent the spread and acquisition of STDs, it is important to know your partner, use properly functioning condoms and to get yourself tested. While you may not want to have a monogamous relationship for a long period of time in college, it is dangerous not to know your partner’s sexual history prior to having sex with them. Know the number of partner’s someone has had as well as if they have had any STDs in the past.
Health is challenging to maintain, especially while you have so much else going on. But, it is important to be wary of diseases. There are many diseases that are important to know about, but being aware of these top three can help you avoid many problems.
