Why do more women get these four diseases?

 

Why do more women get these four diseases

Owing to her unique anatomy, hormones, family history, and lifestyle, a woman at some point in her life will undergo tests to rule out, confirm, or monitor diseases related to her gynecological and reproductive health: from cancers of the breast, cervix, and ovaries to polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and urinary tract infection.

But such factors also make women more vulnerable to certain conditions that men can have too. For example, the natural changes a woman goes through following menopause—less production of estrogen, increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels—put her at risk for heart attack and stroke.

Sheryll Cornejo, MD, an internal medicine consultant of top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), identifies four other health conditions that affect more women than men, and what they can do to reduce their risks.

Osteoporosis, or the weakening of bones, is a result of decreased estrogen production from menopause, which contributes to bone loss. “Anatomically, women also have smaller, thinner bones than men, putting them at risk for fracture,” points out Dr. Cornejo.

Fortify your bones before they become brittle and break by maintaining a diet rich in calcium (dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fish whose bones you can eat are excellent sources) and vitamin D (get it from early morning sun exposure). Also, engage regularly in strength-training and weight-bearing exercises, and avoid alcohol and smoking, which have a negative impact on bone health.

Thyroid cancer, or a malignant growth visible and palpable from the base of the neck, is more common among women in their reproductive years. Because thyroid tissue contains estrogen receptors, fluctuations in female hormones can sometimes promote the growth of these cells, which helps explain the gender gap. Other possible causes are a family history of cancer, faulty genes, radiation exposure, a lack of iodine in the diet, and obesity.

“While you cannot completely prevent sporadic thyroid cancer, keeping a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, limiting radiation exposure, and being aware of your family history can minimize your risks,” says Dr. Cornejo. “More importantly, performing regular neck self-examinations help you catch it early and begin treatment as soon as possible.” The prognosis for thyroid cancer among women is good and marked by high survival rates.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the lining of the joints. Females are two to three times more prone to developing RA. Because women have two X chromosomes – which carry many immune-related genes – they naturally mount stronger immune responses, making them more vulnerable to autoimmune misfires. Furthermore, fluctuating estrogen levels, particularly the sudden drops following pregnancy or during menopause, can trigger the disorder. Others posit that it’s caused by a combination of genetics, smoking, obesity, and environmental factors.

Lifestyle changes, explains Dr. Cornejo, can help manage your risk and reduce severe flare-ups if you are genetically predisposed. “Consume a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Stick to your ideal weight and exercise regularly. Crucially, quit smoking – a major documented trigger for RA – and learn to manage stress.”

Alzheimer’s disease, or the degeneration of the brain due to the accumulation of plaque that destroys healthy brain cells, is diagnosed among more women than men, presumably because women live longer. However, people with the disease are more likely to have hypertension and diabetes, consume cigarettes and alcohol in excess, live a sedentary life, and have limited social interaction.

“Modifying these risk factors can delay, if not prevent, Alzheimer’s disease from developing,” says Dr. Cornejo. “Staying physically and mentally active as well as socializing with family and friends do wonders in keeping the brain stimulated, healthy, and happy.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Kasama Mo Mangarap: New GCash Stories Film Celebrates Second Chances with Atty. Sheila Gomez’s Journey to the Bar

 

Not every dream unfolds exactly as planned, and the journey toward making it a reality isn't always a straight path. Sometimes it calls for unwavering perseverance. Other times, it means finding the courage to take a second chance. And often, true progress comes from knowing when to ask for help so you can keep moving forward.

It's this spirit of courage and perseverance that takes center stage in the sixth installment of this year’s #GCashStories, the flagship campaign from the country’s No. 1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Themed “Kasama Mo Mangarap,” this latest chapter reveals the deeply inspiring real-life journey of Atty. Sheila Gomez—a former legal aide whose lifelong dream of becoming an attorney was realized through sheer determination and responsible financial choices, with the timely support of GLoan.

“Our GCash Stories campaign showed us that the most powerful script is that of real life,” said Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer of Mynt. “Progress becomes possible when people are given the right support at the right time. At GCash, we believe our role goes far beyond providing financial tools—we want to empower Filipinos to keep moving forward. Every Filipino deserves to dream and deserves a second chance in pursuing just that. We take immense pride in Sheila’s journey because it is living proof that digital financial inclusion doesn't just solve a temporary problem; it turns everyday obstacles into real, lasting possibilities - dreams achieved.”

More Than Just a Story: The #GCashStories Movement

GCash Stories is a celebration of real Filipinos whose journeys remind us that progress is often built through everyday acts of courage, determination, and hope. Over the last three years, the campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement that transcends storytelling, capturing a rich collection of lived experiences that reflect the aspirations, challenges, and triumphs of underserved communities across the country and their individual stories of progress with the help of GCash.

By welcoming Atty. Sheila into this portfolio, GCash continues to spark vital conversations about financial inclusion. Her story adds to a powerful legacy of real-life breakthroughs previously featured by the brand:

● Cocoy, a laid-off bartender who turned into a successful business owner with the help of GLoan.

● Alma, a well-loved university employee who lost her home to Typhoon Ulysses but rebuilt it

through community crowdfunding via GCash Send Money.

● Turing, a drag queen and breadwinner who sustained her family during the pandemic by digital tipping via GCash QR.

● Adz, a champion para-athlete who raised funds via GCash Send Money to advocate for the new generation of para-athletes.

● Rhea Inayan, Ang Bayani ng Barangay from Bacolod City, who empowered a community through her GCash Pera Outlet, bringing essential financial services directly to her neighborhood

“At the heart of every GCash Story is a real story of financial progress,” said Lourdes Batac, GCash Head for Communication Strategy. "At the end of the day, GCash’s own narrative is not just about the products we’ve made, but how our products have transformed the lives of everyday Filipinos. We owe it to Cocoy, Ate Alma, Turing, Adz, Rhea, and Sheila for allowing GCash to share their story so that more Filipinos today can clearly imagine their own financial progress journey.”

   

Meet Atty. Sheila Gomez: From Dreamer to Lawyer

For Atty. Sheila Gomez, becoming a lawyer was a dream built on years of sacrifice. While working full- time as a legal aide, she tirelessly juggled the demands of her day job with the rigorous, exhausting requirements of law school, balancing long days at work with late nights of studying.

However, as law school expenses began to pile up alongside everyday living costs, Sheila faced an overwhelming reality familiar to millions of working Filipinos: the heavy weight of financial anxiety. Every enrollment and exam season brought a persistent fear of falling short. Rather than putting her life's calling on hold, she made the decision to turn to GLoan as her silent, reliable personal partner.

The loan provided her with the immediate financial flexibility to cover her law school expenses, allowing her to stay completely focused on her goals without compromising her self-worth or hiding in shame. Armed with this support, she successfully passed the Bar. Today, she continues her journey of financial progress as an active user of GCredit and GGives, proudly declaring, "Ako si Sheila, at ito ang aking GCash Story."

“One of the biggest lessons I learned is that perseverance doesn't always mean doing everything on your own. Sometimes, it means having the courage to seek the right support,” Atty. Sheila Gomez shared during a fireside chat. “It's unfortunate that many Filipinos see loans in a negative light, but when used responsibly and with a clear purpose, borrowing can be a powerful tool and a smart investment that moves you closer to your dreams. I'm grateful that GLoan gave me that opportunity.”

Fuse and GCash: Championing Fair and Respectful Lending

Atty. Sheila’s story highlights a critical reality in today’s economic landscape. Amidst inflation and a challenging local economy, many Filipinos still face predatory lenders or rigid, traditional systems that leave them feeling trapped rather than helped.

Celebrating its 10th year, Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, steps in to actively destigmatize the lending category, championing fair, transparent, and respectful financial practices. Proving that responsible lending should empower the borrower, protect their dignity, and provide a clear path forward, not a cycle of debt.

“Since our inception, we have pursued our mission: "Fair loans that spark better every day for all Filipinos,” said Tony Isidro, President and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc. “Everything we do rests on three core commitments: to provide fast, collateral-free loans; to ensure a safe and secure credit experience; and most importantly, to enable Filipinos to borrow with dignity. When paired with discipline and perseverance, responsible borrowing becomes a stepping stone to lasting financial progress.”

Enabling Every Filipino's Journey Toward a Better Future

While Sheila's triumph takes center stage, hers represents the millions of borrowers who turn to GLoan to continue their education, scale their livelihoods, support their families, and overcome unexpected challenges.

Through these collective experiences, GCash lives out its ultimate vision of Finance for All. By meeting Filipinos exactly where they are, GCash reinforces the universal truth that every individual has the right to dream and achieve those dreams, no matter their socioeconomic situation.

For more information on GLoan and to watch Atty. Sheila’s full GCash Story, visit

https://youtu.be/CHrVTlAhmRI.

Why more young women should refuse to normalize period pain

 

“Tiis ganda” has long been worn like a badge of honor—an everyday test of endurance where women are expected to look composed, stay productive, and push through discomfort as if it’s part of the job description. From long days at school or work to back-to-back responsibilities, it’s a quiet culture of kaya pa, even when the body is clearly asking for a pause.

But nowhere does this expectation feel more real than during menstruation. Period pain becomes another layer of “tiis”—the kind that can turn reviewing for an exam, finishing a presentation, or even simply getting out of bed into a full-on challenge.

Yet despite how common it is, menstrual pain is still often brushed off as something to simply endure. Somewhere along the way, women were made to believe that suffering in silence is just part of being capable and productive. But when did pain become part of the honor roll checklist?

The “Tiis Ganda” Culture Around Period Pain

“Tiis ganda” has long been woven into everyday womanhood—not just as a cultural phrase, but as an unspoken standard of strength and self-control. It often gets framed as resilience, yet it can also mean normalizing discomfort that goes unseen, unspoken, and unquestioned.

One of the most common—but least openly discussed—forms of this is period pain, or dysmenorrhea, the medical term for painful menstrual cramps that can seriously disrupt everyday life. For many, it could mean throbbing cramps, lower back pain, nausea, headaches, and energy levels so low that even getting through a one-hour lecture feels like a major achievement.

Still, many young women simply power through. Why? The study by the National Library of Medicine found that period pain has been normalized for so long that it barely gets questioned. Add to that the fear of being labeled “dramatic,” the pressure to stay productive, and the long-standing idea that pain is just part of womanhood—and silence becomes the default response.

The result? A culture of tiis ganda around period pain, where resilience sometimes looks like suffering in silence. But while pushing through may seem admirable, painful periods can quietly take a toll: losing focus during exams, zoning out in class, skipping org activities, feeling drained before the day even starts, or missing out on enriching experiences that are part of student life.

Managing period pain more effectively

The truth is, period pain is common—but it shouldn’t be normalized to the point of neglect.

Health experts emphasize that menstrual discomfort that disrupts daily life deserves attention, not dismissal. It is not something students or women in general should be expected to “just live with” as part of being productive or resilient. For many young women, managing menstrual cramps often means continuing through discomfort that may warrant greater attention and care.

There is growing recognition that enduring pain should not be treated as an expected part of being productive or resilient. Menstrual discomfort, particularly when it interferes with daily activities, should be managed proactively. Measures such as adequate rest, hydration, heat therapy, and light physical activity may help alleviate symptoms. More importantly, seeking appropriate relief and support should be considered a routine part of self-care, not an afterthought.

For women students navigating busy school months, Hyoscine N-butylbromide + Paracetamol

(Buscopan Venus) helps treat dysmenorrhea at the source, works in as fast as 15 minutes for relief that can last throughout the day, and helps reduce the intensity of future period pain. It can be taken as 1–2 tablets, up to 3 times daily, or as prescribed by a physician.

Ultimately, managing student life should not mean ignoring physical discomfort. Menstrual pain is not a requirement for discipline, achievement, or strength. While resilience remains valuable, it should never come at the cost of unnecessary suffering.

The conversation is evolving—from silent endurance to active care. And in that shift, a clearer message emerges: women and students can pursue their goals fully, without having to “tiis” pain as part of the process. 

If symptoms persist, consult a doctor. 

Mang Inasal brings one-day Pork BBQ Blowout Delivery Edition this July 15

 

Missed the National Mang Inasal Pork BBQ Blowout Day? Don't worry—Mang Inasal is giving you another chance to enjoy its trending smoky-sweet, juicy-lambot Pork BBQ with the PorkBBQ Blowout Delivery Edition happening on July 15.

 

For one day only, you can enjoy exclusive delivery-only discounts on your favorite Ihaw-Sarap meals. The 4-piece Pork BBQ Buddy Size will be available for only Php 169, while the Salo-Sarap Ihaw Duo, featuring two pieces of Chicken Inasal Paa Large and two pieces of Pork BBQ, can be enjoyed for just Php 349.

 

The promo is available exclusively through the Mang Inasal Delivery App, the official Mang Inasal website, GrabFood, and foodpanda. No promo code is required, as the discount is automatically applied upon checkout.

Whether you're satisfying your Filipino grilled-food cravings or sharing a hearty meal with family and friends, the Mang Inasal Pork BBQ Blowout Delivery Edition offers a delicious and affordable way to enjoy the brand's signature Pork BBQ and Mang Inasal Chicken Inasal without leaving home.

Don't miss this one-day-only delivery-exclusive promo on July 15, 2026!

 

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latestnews, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on socialmedia for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

Flowers, so beautiful—and so deadly?

 

Knowing how to spot a potentially toxic, pathogenic, or allergenic flower or plant and avoiding it is the easiest way to prevent a bad or life-threatening reaction.

Whether you’re gifted with one or a dozen, flowers can’t help but put a smile on your face. Chalk it up to their stunning colors, their heady scent, or what they represent (is it friendship—or love?), flowers have the power to uplift flagging spirits and brighten up a plain room.

And yet, these beautiful, fragrant creations of nature can also be the death of you.

Toxins and fungus

“Certain flowers contain toxic substances, which they use to protect themselves against insects, plant- eating animals, and environmental stress,” explains Fatima Johanna T. Santos-Ocampo, MD, Pediatric Allergology  Immunology Specialist of top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Angel’s trumpet and azalea are highly poisonous and can cause illness or death if ingested. Poinsettia and daffodil can result in mild gastrointestinal issues, and poison ivy triggers itchy rashes upon contact.”

Like humans, plants can get sick too. Notice a white dust coating leaves, stems, and even flower petals? That’s powdery mildew, a fungal disease that makes leaves turn yellow then brown before falling off. Black spot, which, true to its name, appears as black markings on the leaves of roses, and gray mold obtains its host’s nutrients by coating it in thick gray fuzz.

“In general, we are not likely to get infected by a plant attacked by a pathogen or a microorganism that brings disease to its host,” says Dr. Santos-Ocampo. “Still, it’s best we avoid them, especially if we’re immunocompromised. Sporotrichosis, a fungus found on the thorns of dead roses, can affect the lungs, eyes, central nervous system, bones, and joints, when it enters the skin from a scratch. Mycotoxin, a type of fungi, produces aflatoxins, which can lead to vomiting, convulsions, cancer, and death.”

Pollen

Then there are flowers with pollen, a fine, powdery substance essential to the reproduction of plants. It’s also a known allergen. When inhaled, “our immune system thinks they are invading our body, much like a virus or bacteria. This leads to the release of histamine, which makes us itch, sniffle, and sneeze,” explains Dr. Santos-Ocampo. “Others experience more distressing symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.”

Flowers known to trigger an allergic reaction include baby’s breath, dahlia, daisy, chamomile,

chrysanthemum, and sunflower.

Treatment and prevention

Knowing how to spot a potentially toxic, pathogenic, or allergenic flower or plant and avoiding it is the easiest way to prevent a bad or life-threatening reaction, says the MakatiMed specialist. “If you notice leaves with telltale signs of a pathogen, pluck them out immediately so they don’t spread to the other leaves,” says Dr. Santos-Ocampo. “Put space between plants to promote good air circulation, and protect them with commercially available garden oils and fungicide sprays.”

As for flowers, play safe and choose from a host of pollen-free varieties or those whose pollen are sticky, heavy or trapped, hence not easily airborne. “Among these are roses, orchids, tulips, hydrangeas, peonies, carnations, irises, begonias, snapdragons, and cactus flowers, which are low in pollen. These are also very lovely to give and receive,” advises Dr. Santos-Ocampo.

“You can also keep allergic reactions at bay by purchasing fresh flowers, which are less likely to release pollen. Flowers with an overpowering fragrance may trigger sneezing because they have volatile organic compounds (VOC’s). In concentrated form, these may trigger coughing,  attack in sensitive individuals. It is safer to choose those with mild scents.”

Over-the-counter medications can ease your symptoms of pollen allergy. Ask your doctor to recommend antihistamines, decongestants, and eye drops for your particular case. “See a healthcare specialist immediately if the symptoms do not subside or progress,” says Dr. Santos-Ocampo.

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow MakatiMed’s social media pages for more health-related content and for the latest updates: https://www.makatimed.net.ph/social-media- pages/