Heart disease in women is a major public health concern, but it is often overlooked. Despite the misconception that heart disease primarily affects men, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. During Heart Month, @MassGenBrigham experts debunk myths about heart disease in women. One of the main myths is that cardiac events are unpredictable and inevitable. However, this is far from the truth. This article aims to highlight the real risks and provide practical advice to counter these myths.

A silent crisis: Understanding heart disease in women

It is a common misconception that heart disease is primarily a male problem. However, according to the American Heart Association, nearly 45% of women over the age of 20 have cardiovascular disease. Campaigns such as ‘Go Red for Women’ and ‘The Heart Truth’ have played a vital role in raising awareness of heart disease in women, but there is still much work to be done. Women can experience certain heart problems during pregnancy, and complications during this period can increase the risk of developing heart disease later. Additionally, women’s symptoms during a heart attack are often different than men’s, leading to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.

Myths and facts about heart disease in women

Although it is widely believed that cardiac events are unpredictable and inevitable, this is far from the truth. There are several factors that can predict your risk of heart disease, many of which can be controlled through lifestyle changes and medical interventions. For example, high-risk strains of HPV can make a woman four times more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. Women infected with high-risk HPV strains, specifically HPV 16 and HPV 18, were found to have nearly four times higher risk of artery blockage and six times higher risk of death from stroke. Did. Understanding these risks can help women take proactive steps to protect their cardiovascular health.

Prevention and proactive measures

Prevention is the key to fighting heart disease in women. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and being aware of potential symptoms are important. Dr. Megan Wafi, a general cardiologist in Massachusetts, emphasizes the importance of heart disease prevention during Heart Month. You can significantly lower your risk of heart disease by getting regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, keeping stress levels in check, and quitting smoking. Additionally, regular screening for high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes can help identify potential risks early.

The association between HPV and heart disease further highlights the need for comprehensive longitudinal studies to fully understand the impact of HPV infection on cardiovascular health. There is also a need for greater diversity in research populations to understand how heart disease can affect women of different ages, races, and ethnicities differently.

Heart disease in women is a pressing issue that requires greater awareness, understanding and action. By debunking the myth that heart events are unpredictable and inevitable, we can empower women to take control of their heart health. Remember that the power to prevent heart disease lies primarily in our hands. Let’s use it.