Heart Disease in Women
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States, exceeding deaths from cancer. Despite this, cardiovascular risk in women is still frequently underrecognized and undertreated.
Most people are familiar with traditional risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, elevated cholesterol, physical inactivity, and chronic stress for heart disease. However, women also have additional risk factors that are unique and important to consider.
According to the American Heart Association, pregnancy-related conditions such as gestational diabetes, pregnancy-associated hypertension, and preeclampsia are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. Hormonal and reproductive health factors also play a role, including early menopause (before age 40) and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.
It is also important to recognize that heart attack symptoms in women may present differently. While chest discomfort remains common, women are more likely to experience less typical symptoms such as:
• Shortness of breath
• Unusual fatigue
• Nausea or dizziness
• Pain in the back, neck, or jaw
Improving awareness of women-specific risk factors and recognizing early warning signs are key steps in prevention and timely care.
(The information provided is for educational purposes and should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any conditions. Consult with your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.)