Women’s cardiovascular health has historically been under-diagnosed, under-researched, and under-treated, with men historically being centered in the health care system. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both sexes in the U.S., killing more women than all forms of cancer combined. Many women remain unaware that cardiovascular disease is their greatest health threat, with almost 45% of women over the age of 20 living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Certain health patterns beginning in childhood, like an early first period, pregnancy complications, early menopause, and post-menopause, can predict or lead to heart conditions in the future. Other health conditions common in women, such as migraines, polycystic ovarian syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, can also increase the risk of heart disease.
Screening for cardiovascular disease needs to become as routine as getting a mammogram or pap smear, with tools like risk calculators and calcium score tests available to predict a woman’s future risk of heart attack or stroke. Lifestyle choices play a crucial role in preventing cardiovascular disease, with 80% being preventable through habits like regular exercise, balanced diet, and not smoking or drinking. Recognizing warning signs like chest pain and getting early intervention is crucial, as symptoms can occur weeks before a cardiac event. Paying attention to critical numbers like blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index, starting in your 20s, is essential for monitoring heart health.
Being aware of family history and understanding genetic predispositions to heart conditions is important in assessing your own risk for cardiovascular disease. Knowing if family members experienced cardiac events early in life or have conditions like heart failure, electrical abnormalities of the heart, or elevated lipid levels can provide valuable insight. Understanding that no one is immune to heart disease, regardless of lifestyle choices, is critical. Factors like stress management and mental health play a significant role in heart health, with stress potentially leading to cardiac events and conditions like anxiety and depression affecting cardiovascular health.
Prioritizing sleep and ensuring you get enough quality rest is also essential for heart health. Sleep-disordered breathing conditions like sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. Making efforts to prioritize heart health through diet, exercise, doctor appointments, monitoring changes in your body, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can have long-term benefits for cardiovascular health. It’s crucial for every woman to prioritize her cardiovascular health and seek out a physician who listens and values her concerns, nurturing and loving her heart as one of the most valuable relationships she will ever have.
