10 Heart Health Facts for Women

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for U.S. women, causing 1 in 3 deaths annually. That fact surprises many people. It also highlights how important it is to share the facts about women and heart health.

In addition to the figure above, this article lists 10 others everyone should be aware of and that women should take steps to address. While heart disease affects some women at higher rates due to certain risk factors, all women can take action to improve their heart health and lower their risk of a heart attack, stroke or other event.

Crucial Facts About Heart Disease in Women

These facts are eye-opening for many people and can provide strong motivation for focusing on heart health:

1. Heart disease affects women of all ages. Cardiovascular disease can affect women of all ages, including those as young as 20.
2. Women are more likely than men to die from heart disease. The commonly held belief that it is primarily a “man’s disease” is incorrect.
3. Hypertension (high blood pressure) can occur in pregnancy. It’s the condition women most commonly develop when pregnant and can pose serious health risks for new moms, accounting for a third of maternal deaths.
4. Cardiovascular disease kills more women than all cancers combined. Still, many women view cancer as the most significant health threat they face.
5. Women have different heart attack symptoms. Many women do not experience classic chest pain during a heart attack and may have symptoms such as jaw discomfort, nausea, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, or extreme fatigue.
6. More than half of high blood pressure deaths occur in women. The so-called silent killer affects women at a higher rate than men.
7. Women are less likely to get CPR from bystanders. Concerns about inappropriate touching or injuring the person make people less likely to assist a woman who is having a heart attack.
8. Women are underrepresented in heart disease research. Women have historically been underrepresented in heart disease research, making it important to advocate for more inclusive studies. In other words, what we know about women and heart disease is concerning, and it may be only part of the story.
9. Menopause doesn’t cause heart disease. However, it occurs at a point in life when a woman’s cardiac risk factors increase rapidly, making it an important milestone for renewed or sustained focus on heart health.
10.  Most heart attacks and strokes can be prevented. Lifestyle changes, such as getting more  exercise, eating healthier and managing high blood pressure can improve heart health and reduce risks.

Help Change the Narrative on Women and Heart Disease

The facts about women and heart disease can be scary. However, there is good news: People are increasingly learning about the devastating impact cardiovascular issues can have on women and actions for improving heart health. You can make a difference by sharing this article with your friends and loved ones and, if you’re a woman, making lifestyle changes to lower your risk of a heart attack, stroke and other cardiac events.

If you have questions about heart health, talk with your doctor. They can provide recommendations specific to you and your current health.

Don’t have a Baptist Health provider? You can find one in our online provider directory.

Next Steps and Helpful Resources

Learn More About Heart Care at Baptist Health
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