Heart Disease in Women: What Every Woman Needs to Know

By Dr. Aneley Yegezu Hundae, M.D., FACC

As an invasive cardiologist, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact that heart disease can have on women. Despite the fact that heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States, many women are still unaware of the risks and symptoms associated with this condition. In this article, I will discuss the prevalence of heart disease in women and what steps women can take to protect their heart health.

Prevalence of Heart Disease in Women
Heart disease affects millions of women in the United States, and the prevalence of the condition is increasing. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 44 million women in the United States have some form of cardiovascular disease. Heart disease is responsible for more deaths among women than all forms of cancer combined, and women are more likely than men to die from a heart attack.

One of the reasons that heart disease is so prevalent among women is that women often experience different symptoms than men. While chest pain is a common symptom of heart disease in men, women may experience a wider range of symptoms, including shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. These symptoms can be subtle and may be mistaken for other conditions, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Women
There are several risk factors that can increase a woman’s risk of developing heart disease. Some of the most common risk factors include:
• Age: The risk of heart disease increases as women get older, especially after menopause.
• Family history: Women with a family history of heart disease are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
• Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease in women, as it can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
• High blood pressure: Women with high blood pressure are more likely to develop heart disease, as it can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• High cholesterol: Women with high cholesterol levels are more likely to develop atherosclerosis, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Diabetes: Women with diabetes are more likely to develop heart disease, as high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis.

Steps Women Can Take to Protect Their Heart Health
Fortunately, there are several steps that women can take to protect their heart health and reduce their risk of developing heart disease. Some of the most effective strategies include:

• Maintaining a healthy diet: Eating a diet that is rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Maintaining appropriate weight.
• Exercising regularly: Regular exercise can help to improve heart health, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and maintain a healthy weight.
• Quitting smoking: Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall health.
• Managing stress: High levels of stress can increase the risk of heart disease, so it is important to find ways to manage stress, such as through meditation, yoga, or counseling.
• Getting regular check-ups: Women should see their healthcare provider regularly for check-ups and screenings, especially if they have risk factors for heart disease.

Heart disease is a serious condition that affects millions of women in the United States. As an invasive cardiologist, I urge women to take steps to protect their heart health, including maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, managing stress, and getting regular check-ups. By working together, we can reduce the prevalence of heart disease among women and ensure that women receive the care and support they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Dr. Aneley Yegezu Hundae, M.D., FACC
invasive cardiology and advanced heart failure management Dr. Hundae received his Premedical and Doctor of Medicine Degree from Jimma University School of Medicine. He completed his Internal medicine Residency at Mercer University School of Medicine. His Heart Failure/Heart Transplant fellowship at the University of Miami Cardiovascular Fellowship Program. Cardiovascular fellowship at Baylor University Medical Center.

Board certifications
• Cardiology
• Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant
• Nuclear Cardiology
• Comprehensive Echocardiography
• Internal Medicine

Port Charlotte Cardiiology
3161 Harbor Blvd, Suite A, Port Charlotte, FL 33952
(941) 235-8892
www.portcharlottecardiology.com