Heart attacks and other heart-related diseases are on a constant rise in India and around the globe in women. Such diseases are on a rise due to many factors including unhealthy lifestyles. As per the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, over 44 percent of women are dealing with heart diseases which are one of the leading causes of death for women. But what increases the risk of a heart attack in women?
Introduction: International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 every year to acknowledge the achievements of women in different fields and to recognize the challenges they face in society. While women have come a long way, they are still at risk of developing heart diseases. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women worldwide. Hence, this Women’s Day, we must focus on reducing the risk of heart attacks among females by making necessary lifestyle changes.
What Increases Risk Factors For Heart Disease In Women
There are several factors that can increase the risk of heart disease in women. Such diseases may vary from undiagnosed blood pressure issues that end up damaging the heart. Undiagnosed blood pressure is also one of the silent reasons that increase the risk of cardiac diseases in women.
Further, early menopause, diabetes, preterm delivery, and PCOS can also increase the risk of a heart attack. Meanwhile, lifestyle problems like obesity, smoking, excessive stress, physical inactivity, too much alcohol consumption, intake of unhealthy meals, high blood sugar, and mental health issues can too contribute to affecting a woman’s heart.
Section 1: Understanding the Risk Factors
1.1: Age and Family History
Age and family history are two of the most significant risk factors for heart disease in women. Women over the age of 55 are more likely to develop heart disease, and if they have a family history of heart disease, their risk is even higher.
1.2: Smoking
Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Women who smoke are twice as likely to develop heart disease as non-smokers.
1.3: High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is another risk factor for heart disease. Women with high blood pressure are more likely to develop heart disease, and if they also have other risk factors, such as smoking or diabetes, their risk is even higher.
1.4: High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is also a risk factor for heart disease. Women with high cholesterol levels are more likely to develop heart disease, and if they also have other risk factors, such as smoking or diabetes, their risk is even higher.
Section 2: Lifestyle Changes to Reduce the Risk of Heart Attack
2.1: Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking is one of the most important things women can do to reduce their risk of heart attack. It is never too late to quit smoking, and the benefits are almost immediate. Within 1-2 years of quitting smoking, the risk of heart disease drops to that of a non-smoker.
2.2: Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is another critical lifestyle change that can reduce the risk of heart attack in women. Exercise can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and maintain a healthy weight. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
2.3: Follow a Healthy Diet
Following a healthy diet is essential for reducing the risk of heart attack in women. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
2.4: Manage Stress
Stress can increase the risk of heart disease in women. Hence, managing stress is crucial for reducing the risk of heart attack. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help manage stress.
2.5: Regular Health Checkups
Regular health checkups are crucial for detecting any underlying health conditions that can increase the risk of heart disease. Women should get their blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels checked regularly.
Section 3: Conclusion
Heart disease is a significant health issue for women, and reducing the risk of heart attack requires making necessary lifestyle changes. Quitting smoking, regular exercise, following a healthy diet, managing stress, and regular health checkups are some of the lifestyle changes that women can make to reduce the risk of heart attack. This Women’s Day, let us pledge to make these lifestyle changes to improve our heart health and live a healthy life.
References:
- American Heart Association. (2021). Women and heart disease. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/women-and-cardiovascular-disease-statistics
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (202 0Women and Heart Disease Fact Sheet. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/women.htm 3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020).
- Heart disease in women. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/heart-disease-women
- American Heart Association. (2021). Life’s simple 7. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/my-life-check–lifes-simple-7
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). Stress and your heart. https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/stress-and-your-heart
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Women and heart disease: Understand your risks. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/women-and-heart-disease/art-20046167