Women are twice as likely to die from coronary heart disease as from breast cancer, a sobering statistic that underscores the urgent need for awareness and action. Despite this, many still wrongly view heart disease as a male-specific health issue, warns the British Heart Foundation.
The situation is similarly dire in the United States, where cardiovascular disease claims more female lives each year than all forms of cancer combined, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To address this widespread gap in knowledge, Dr. Tara Narula, an associate professor of cardiology, has outlined six essential facts every woman should know about heart disease.
First and foremost, Dr. Narula emphasizes that chest pain should never be ignored. “While it might be tempting to attribute it to acid reflux or stress, it could signify a heart-related issue,” she told Today.com. Even “mild or brief pain” can be a warning sign. Additional symptoms include jaw pain, shoulder discomfort, tightness around the chest (sometimes described as feeling like your bra is too tight), and unexplained sweating, according to Surrey Live.
Dr. Narula urges women to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect something is wrong, as early intervention can save lives. She also stresses the importance of understanding one’s “critical numbers” — including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). Monitoring these key indicators plays a pivotal role in heart disease prevention.
Equally important is knowing your family’s medical history. “It’s important to ask if you have a family history of heart failure, sudden cardiac death, electrical abnormalities of the heart, aortic aneurysms, or elevated lipid levels,” Dr. Narula explained. Genetics can significantly influence heart health, and early knowledge can guide preventive care.
A common misconception Dr. Narula warns against is assuming that healthy lifestyle habits provide full immunity from heart disease. “While you might be active, eat a healthy diet, and not smoke or drink, you’re not necessarily in the clear and could still develop coronary artery disease,” she said.
Mental health also plays a crucial role. Chronic stress can lead to serious cardiac events. “I recommend meditating even for 10 minutes a day and going on short walks,” Dr. Narula advised. Finally, sleep should not be overlooked. She recommends seven to eight hours of rest per night. Poor sleep or conditions like sleep apnoea can elevate blood pressure and lead to irregular heart rhythms.
In such cases, Dr. Narula advises consulting a sleep specialist. With heart disease being such a prominent yet misunderstood threat, experts urge women to stay informed, stay vigilant, and take charge of their cardiovascular health.