As we age, our bodies go through a multitude of changes, some of which can increase our risk of developing certain health conditions. In our 50s, there are a number of diseases that we should be aware of and taking steps to prevent.

Here are the top diseases that could be lurking and what you can do to reduce your risk.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. The risk of developing CVD increases with age, and by the time we reach our 50s, we are at a higher risk than ever before.

The major risk factors for CVD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, and diabetes.

To reduce your risk of developing CVD, make sure to eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise, maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking if you haven’t already, and manage any chronic conditions you may have, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. You should also get regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your cholesterol levels and other risk factors.

Cancer

Cancer is another major concern for those in their 50s. As we age, our cells become more prone to mutations that can lead to cancer. The most common types of cancer in people over 50 include breast, lung, colon, and prostate cancer.

To reduce your risk of developing cancer, make sure to get regular cancer screenings as recommended by your doctor.

You should also maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and protect your skin from the sun. If you have a family history of cancer, talk to your doctor about genetic testing and other preventative measures.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become weak and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. As we age, our bones naturally become weaker, putting us at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis.

Women are especially at risk, with 1 in 2 women over the age of 50 experiencing a fracture due to osteoporosis at some point in their lives.

To reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis, make sure to get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet, engage in weight-bearing exercises, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Your doctor may also recommend medications to prevent osteoporosis or to treat it if you have already been diagnosed.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. While the exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not yet known, age is a major risk factor.

By the time we reach our 50s, our risk of developing Alzheimer’s begins to increase significantly.

To reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, exercise regularly, stay socially engaged, and challenge your brain with puzzles and other mental activities.

It is also important to manage any chronic conditions you may have, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, as these can increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. As we age, the risk of developing arthritis increases. In fact, more than half of adults over the age of 65 have arthritis.

To reduce your risk of developing arthritis, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and protect your joints from injury.

If you do develop arthritis, your doctor may recommend medications, physical therapy, or other treatments to help manage your symptoms.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes glucose (sugar). As we age, our risk of developing diabetes increases, with 1 in 4 adults over the age of 65 living with diabetes.

To reduce your risk of developing diabetes, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet.

Your doctor may also recommend medications or other treatments to help manage your blood sugar if you have already been diagnosed with diabetes.

Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition that can affect people of all ages, but it is especially common in older adults. In fact, up to 20% of adults over the age of 65 experience depression.

To reduce your risk of developing depression, stay socially engaged, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy diet.

It is also important to seek treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, such as sadness, loss of interest in activities, or changes in sleep or appetite.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease that affects the airways and makes it difficult to breathe.

While smoking is the leading cause of COPD, other factors such as air pollution and genetics can also contribute to the development of the disease.

To reduce your risk of developing COPD, avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke and air pollution. If you do develop COPD, your doctor may recommend medications, oxygen therapy, or pulmonary rehabilitation to help manage your symptoms.

Eye Diseases

As we age, our eyes become more susceptible to a variety of conditions. The most common eye diseases in people over 50 include age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.

To reduce your risk of developing these conditions, get regular eye exams, maintain a healthy diet, and protect your eyes from UV radiation by wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.

Conclusion

While the risk of developing these diseases increases as we age, there is still plenty that we can do to prevent them or manage their symptoms if they do occur.

Make sure to take care of your body by eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding risky behaviors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. And don’t forget to get regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your health and catch any potential issues early on.