It is believed that breast cancer is the number one killer of women in the US. However, in actuality, heart disease is the number one killer of women. Nearly one-quarter of a million women die annually from heart disease, which is five times the number of women who die from breast cancer.
This overwhelming statistic is the primary reason for the observance of Women’s Heart Health Day, February 1st. Women’s Heart Health Day provides an opportunity to promote heart health for women by focusing on risk factors for heart disease and what women can do to reduce their risk.
Heart Disease refers to a broad range of heart ailments including coronary heart disease, abnormal heart rhythms, heart failure, heart valve disease, congenital heart disease, heart muscle disease, pericardial disease, aorta disease, and vascular disease.
Coronary Heart Disease is the most common and refers to a build up of fatty material that can clog a heart’s coronary arteries. When arteries become clogged or narrowed, it restricts blood flow to the heart. Without adequate blood, the heart becomes starved of oxygen and vital nutrients it needs to function properly. Coronary heart disease, or simply, heart disease, is the No. 1 killer in America, affecting more than 12 million Americans.
There are several risk factors that are linked to heart disease. Family history of heart disease is a major risk factor, especially if a family member developed heart disease before the age of fifty. However, in most cases, heart disease is more likely to occur in women after menopause, because they are no longer producing estrogen.
Other contributing risk factors include specific medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Many diabetic women also may have a disorder that makes them less receptive to pain, so they may miss warning signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain.
Lifestyle also plays an important role in the risk for heart disease. Smoking increases the risk for heart disease. Also, those taking oral contraceptives while smoking have an even greater risk of heart disease. In addition, obesity and lack of physical activity are also contributing factors that could increase your risk of heart disease.
There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of heart disease. Research your family history to see if heart disease runs in the family. The earlier you know you may be at risk, the sooner you can develop a course of action to combat those factors. If you smoke, quit. Stopping the smoking habit will greatly reduce your risk of a stroke or heart attack. Cut back on your intake of saturated fats. Not only does this fat add pounds, but it also can contribute to high blood cholesterol. Finally, take steps to live a healthier lifestyle, such as starting a heart smart diet and exercising more frequently.
For more information or to make and appointment, call 996-WEST.