National Women’s Health Week 2024: Prioritize Your Health, Empower Your Life
Each year, beginning on Mother’s Day, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health celebrates National Women’s Health Week (May 12–18 in 2024). This important observance serves as a reminder to women everywhere to prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional health at every stage of life.
Whether you’re balancing work, family, education, or caregiving, it’s easy to put your own well-being on the back burner. National Women’s Health Week is a chance to stop, reflect, and invest in your health—not only for yourself but for the people who count on you.
Why Women's Health Deserves Special Focus
Women face unique health challenges throughout their lives, including reproductive health issues, pregnancy-related conditions, autoimmune diseases, and a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression. In many cases, women are misdiagnosed or undertreated due to gender bias in medicine or lack of access to proper care.
Here’s why it’s crucial to focus on women’s health:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., yet many women are unaware of their risk.
Women are more likely than men to suffer from osteoporosis, thyroid disorders, and chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.
Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety occur at nearly twice the rate in women compared to men.
Maternal mortality is still a critical issue, especially among Black and Indigenous women, who face disproportionately higher risks.
Taking a proactive approach to health can help detect issues early, prevent disease, and lead to a longer, more vibrant life.
2024 Theme: “Power Up for Health”
This year’s theme encourages women to take control of their health journey by getting informed, staying active, and building sustainable wellness habits. It’s about recognizing that your health is your power—one that influences your family, career, and overall quality of life.
Seven Steps to Prioritize Your Health
Here are key areas to focus on during National Women’s Health Week and beyond:
1. Schedule Regular Check-Ups and Screenings
Preventive care can catch potential problems before they become serious. Be sure to schedule:
Annual wellness visits
Pap smears and pelvic exams
Mammograms (starting at age 40, or earlier based on risk)
Cholesterol and blood pressure checks
Bone density tests (especially after age 50)
Diabetes and thyroid screenings
Talk to your healthcare provider about a screening schedule that’s right for your age and health history.
2. Eat for Energy and Longevity
Nutrition is a cornerstone of good health. Aim for:
Plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
Calcium and vitamin D to support bone health
Iron-rich foods, especially for menstruating women
Hydration—drink at least 8 cups of water daily
Limiting processed foods, added sugars, and saturated fats
Cooking at home more often and being mindful of portion sizes can make a big difference over time.
3. Get Moving Daily
Regular exercise strengthens your body, boosts mood, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Try to:
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (like brisk walking or cycling)
Incorporate strength training twice a week
Add stretching or yoga for flexibility and stress relief
Movement doesn’t have to be intense—dancing, gardening, or walking your dog counts, too!
4. Prioritize Mental Health
Mental and emotional well-being are just as important as physical health. Don’t ignore signs of:
Chronic stress
Depression or anxiety
Burnout or exhaustion
Make time for rest, sleep, and activities that bring joy. Connect with loved ones, journal, meditate, or speak to a therapist. Asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.
5. Sleep Like Your Health Depends on It—Because It Does
Poor sleep has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and mental health issues. Most women need 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night. Improve your sleep hygiene by:
Going to bed and waking up at consistent times
Limiting screen time before bed
Creating a calm, dark sleeping environment
Avoiding caffeine and heavy meals late at night
6. Know Your Family History
Understanding your family’s health history can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about screenings and lifestyle changes. Ask about:
History of cancer, heart disease, diabetes
Autoimmune conditions
Genetic disorders
Share this information with your healthcare provider during your next check-up.
7. Speak Up About Your Health
Too often, women’s pain or symptoms are dismissed. If something doesn’t feel right, advocate for yourself. You know your body best. Don't hesitate to ask questions, seek second opinions, or switch providers if you don’t feel heard.
Addressing Health Disparities
This week also calls attention to health inequities faced by women of color, rural women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those in low-income communities. These groups often encounter barriers like:
Limited access to quality care
Discrimination or bias in the healthcare system
Financial instability
Language and cultural obstacles
Improving women’s health means ensuring that all women have access to respectful, affordable, and culturally competent care.
How You Can Participate in National Women’s Health Week
Get a health check-up or schedule a screening you’ve been putting off.
Host a wellness event in your workplace, school, or church.
Share your health story online using hashtags like #NWHW or #WomensHealthWeek.
Support women-owned health and wellness businesses.
Encourage the women in your life to put themselves on their own priority list.
Final Thoughts: Your Health Is an Investment, Not a Luxury
In a world that often expects women to do it all, self-care is not selfish—it’s survival. National Women’s Health Week is your reminder that your health matters, your voice matters, and your well-being affects everyone around you.
This week—and every week—choose to show up for yourself. Book that appointment, take that walk, get that rest. Because a healthier you is a more empowered you.
