Heart disease Often considered a “men’s problem,” research, prevention, and treatment efforts focus primarily on men. However, research shows that Indian women are also at significant risk of heart disease, which is becoming the leading cause of death among women. This silent menace is often undiagnosed and untreated, leading to worse outcomes for women than men when: heart problems.

Why are women at higher risk?

One reason women experience worse outcomes is that they tend to have different symptoms than men. Men typically experience chest pain and discomfort, while women may experience more subtle symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, and back or jaw pain. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as anxiety, stress, or even indigestion, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.

Understand gender-specific symptoms and personalized treatments

Another factor contributing to worse outcomes for women is the lack of customized treatment options. Historically, most research on heart disease has focused on men, creating a knowledge gap in understanding how the disease affects women. As a result, many treatments and medications may not be as effective for women as they are for men.

Additionally, societal perceptions and stigma often result in delayed or inadequate care for women with heart problems. Women may not be taken as seriously as men when they report symptoms, which can lead to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.

What can women do to reduce their risk of heart disease?

Despite these challenges, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk of heart disease. First and foremost, it’s important to know your family history and personal risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. Regular checkups by your health care provider can help detect warning signs early.
Additionally, lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can all help reduce your risk of heart disease. Women should also advocate for themselves and seek out health care providers who are knowledgeable about gender-specific symptoms and treatment options.

In conclusion, heart disease affects both men and women, but it is important to recognize that women may experience worse outcomes due to differences in symptoms, treatments, and social stigma. It is important. By understanding these differences and taking proactive steps to reduce risk, women can increase their chances of living a long, healthy life.
(Article provided by Dr. Manish Bansal, Senior Director, Clinical and Preventive Cardiology, Cardiac Care, Medanta, Gurugram)