Women’s Wellness: Tips to Stay Healthy All Year

New Brunswick, N.J., June 4, 2025 -With so many demands placed on women-whether at home, at work, or in their communities-it's easy for personal health to take a backseat. Making your health a priority now and focusing on preventive care to lower the risk of certain cancers and other diseases can help ensure a better quality of life for years to come. Shicha Kumar, MD, FACS, Breast Surgical Oncologist at Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health shares simple, sustainable ways women can take control of their health, no matter their age or stage of life.Lay the Groundwork: Healthy Habits Small, daily choices can make a big difference over time. The American Cancer Society encourages these core lifestyle habits to lower the risk of cancer and chronic conditions:Eat a nutritious, balanced dietFocus on whole foods-plenty of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. Cut back on processed foods and sugary beverages when possible.Stay physically activeAim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, like brisk walking, swimming, yoga, or cycling.Maintain a healthy body weightObesity is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancers, including breast and uterine cancers.Limit or avoid alcoholAlcohol use is the third most important preventable risk factor for cancer, after tobacco use and excess body weight.Know the Signs: Protect Your Gynecologic HealthGynecologic cancers can affect any woman, and early detection often leads to better outcomes. There are five main types: cervical, endometrial (uterine), ovarian, vaginal, and vulvar. Be aware of the warning signs, which may include:Abnormal vaginal bleeding or dischargeFrequent bloating or swelling in the abdomenPelvic pain or pressureA sore or lesion in the genital area that doesn't healWhile some of these symptoms may be caused by non-cancerous conditions, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider if they persist. Annual exams and screenings, like Pap smears and pelvic exams, are essential for monitoring gynecologic health.Don't Skip Preventive ScreeningsPreventive screenings help catch diseases early, often before symptoms appear. Key screenings that every woman should know about include:Breast CancerMammograms can detect cancer early, when it's most treatable. Discuss with your doctor when to begin screening, typically around age 40, or earlier if you have a family history. Learn more or schedule a mammogram.Colorectal CancerWomen are just as much at risk as men. Screening should begin at age 45. Options include stool tests and colonoscopy. Read: What Women Need to Know About Colorectal CancerCervical CancerWhile cervical cancer can develop at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in women who are between the ages of 35 and 44, with 50 years old the average age at diagnosis. Regular Pap tests help identify precancerous changes. Read more about how combining regular screening and HPV vaccination significantly enhances the prevention of cervical cancer.RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state's only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, encourages women to take charge of their health. This Women's Health Month, make your well-being a priority. Talk with your healthcare provider about screenings, ask questions, and take proactive steps toward better health. For journalists - contact: Krista Didzbalis Corporate Communications Specialist732-201-krista.didbalis2@rwjbh.orgFor patient appointments/inquiries - contact: 844-CANCERNJ (844-226-2376) Breast CareRWJBarnabas Health NewsNews