Heart Disease
The Surprising News About Women’s #1 Health Risk
Think heart disease is a health problem that affects mainly men? Think again. “Heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women”, says Dr. (name, title). Indeed, more women die each year of heart disease than men.
“It is true that women develop heart disease later in life”, continues Dr. (last name). “But by age 65, women and men have an equal risk for heart disease. Women are also less likely than men to survive a heart attack.”
So what can you as a woman do to prevent this disease? If you smoke, quit. If you are overweight, reconsider your diet and avoid foods that have saturated fats, such as fried foods and red meat. Start a regular exercise program, as simple as walking briskly 30 minutes a day, three times a week. Know the warning signs of a heart attack:
- Chest discomfort that feels like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
- Discomfort or pain in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
- Cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
Are You At Risk for Heart Disease?
Take this simple test:
Has another family member been treated for heart disease before age 60?
Are you a smoker?
Is your cholesterol level over 200?
Are you or an immediate family member diabetic?
Are you overweight?
Is your blood pressure higher than 140/90?
Do you have a sedentary lifestyle (less than 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week)?
If you answered “Yes” to two or more of these questions, you could be at risk for heart disease. Discuss what you need to do with your primary care physician. But do it soon. Early prevention is critical.
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