The Health Corner: Women and Heart Disease

Compared to breast cancer, heart disease, also known as Coronary Heart Disease, is the leading cause of death of women in the United States. It affects all ethnicities, but is more prevalent in African Americans and whites,

Prevalence

Statistics have shown that since 1984, more women than men have died from heart disease. It accounts for 1 in 3 female deaths each year, that is, one woman succumbing to the disease approximately every minute. Data has revealed that an estimated 43 million women in the U.S are affected and that 90 percent has one or two risk factors that will lead to developing this. Even with an increase in awareness in the past 30years, only 54 percent of women acknowledge this disease to be their number one killer, and for that, many women will die suddenly with no prior symptoms.

Cause of Heart Disease

Heart disease is caused by narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries by the build up of plague, a process known as atherosclerosis. Over time, it impedes or stops blood flow, causing tissue death, resulting in heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmia, and stroke.

           

Risk Factors

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Overweight or obesity

Depression or stress

Diabetes

Family history of heart disease

You are also at risk if you:

Smoke

Have Poor diet and nutrition

Drink alcohol excessively

Being physically inactive

Reducing the Chances of Heart Disease

In reducing the chances of getting heart disease, women need to be more proactive about their health. Regular doctor visits allow for early diagnoses and treatment. Other preventative measures include:

-controlling blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels

            -quit smoking

-eating healthy

-exercising

-weight control

-limit alcohol intake

-lower stress levels

-know your family health history