by Dr. Lucy Andrews, DNP, AWAquitane
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women worldwide, yet many women continue to underestimate their personal risk. For decades, cardiovascular disease was viewed primarily as a men’s health issue, resulting in delayed recognition, underdiagnosis and undertreatment of women. American Heart Month provides an opportunity to correct these misconceptions and empower women with accurate, evidence-based information to protect their heart health throughout their lives.
While women often develop heart disease later than men, their outcomes are frequently worse. One major reason is that women are more likely to experience non-classic or atypical symptoms during cardiac events, leading to delays in seeking care and in receiving timely diagnosis.
Common symptoms of heart disease or heart attack in women may include:
- shortness of breath,
- unusual or extreme fatigue,
- nausea or indigestion,
- pain in the jaw, neck, shoulder, or back,
- dizziness,
- sleep disturbances or
- anxiety.
Chest pain may be mild or absent. Recognizing these symptoms and acting quickly can be lifesaving.
Several cardiovascular risk factors affect women more strongly than men. High blood pressure is the single most important modifiable risk factor for heart disease and stroke in women, particularly after menopause. Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides contribute to risk, and standard cholesterol tests may not fully reflect cardiovascular danger in some women.
Metabolic health also plays a critical role. Women with insulin resistance, prediabetes or diabetes face a significantly higher risk of heart disease compared to men with similar conditions. Chronic stress, sleep deprivation and long-term caregiving strain further increase inflammation, blood pressure and cardiovascular risk.
Hormonal transitions across a woman’s life are increasingly recognized as important indicators of heart health. Pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes are now known to increase long-term cardiovascular risk. Menopause is associated with changes in cholesterol, body composition, blood pressure and vascular health.
The encouraging news is that most heart disease is preventable. Regular physical activity remains one of the most powerful tools for protecting the heart. Women benefit from a combination of aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, and strength training to preserve muscle and bone mass. Maintaining balance and flexibility supports long-term mobility and independence.
Heart-protective nutrition emphasizes whole, minimally processed foods. Diets rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds and healthy fats such as olive oil and fatty fish support vascular health, reduce inflammation and help regulate blood sugar. Limiting ultra-processed foods and added sugars is particularly important for metabolic and cardiovascular health.
Sleep is a critical but often overlooked component of heart health. Most women require seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night. Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart rhythm disturbances and cardiovascular events.
Stress management is not simply about relaxation; it has measurable physiological effects on the heart and blood vessels. Practices such as slow breathing, mindfulness, gentle movement, time outdoors and social connection help regulate the nervous system and support cardiovascular resilience.
Knowing and tracking personal health metrics empowers women to take an active role in prevention. Blood pressure, blood sugar or A1C, cholesterol and triglyceride levels should be monitored over time, with attention to trends rather than isolated values.
American Heart Month is an opportunity to take meaningful action. Scheduling a heart health review with a healthcare provider, monitoring blood pressure at home, increasing strength-based exercise, prioritizing sleep and learning the warning signs of heart attack in women are practical steps that can significantly reduce risk.
Heart disease in women is common, seriousand largely preventable. With awareness, early intervention and consistent healthy habits, women can protect their hearts and maintain quality of life well into older age.
References
World Health Organization. Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs).
American Heart Association. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2023 Update.
Virani SS et al. Circulation. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics.
Mosca L et al. Circulation. Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Women.
Mehta LS et al. Circulation. Acute Myocardial Infarction in Women.
Wenger NK. Clinical Cardiology. Women and Cardiovascular Disease.
St-Onge MP et al. Circulation. Sleep and Cardiometabolic Health.
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