February is American Heart Month
Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women? While it is known that differences exist in how heart disease presents itself in males compared to females, women have largely been underrepresented in all aspects of biological research. The disparities women face only deepen when combined with other factors such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The good news is there’s a growing movement to spread awareness of these disparities, with the hopes of improving health equity. Let's delve into some important heart-healthy information...
» The most common form of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD) which is caused by plaque buildup in the artery walls that supply blood to the heart.
» Women who have gone through menopause are at an increased risk of coronary artery disease.
» While some people exhibit no symptoms, others may feel heavy chest discomfort, nausea, vomiting, excessive tiredness, palpitations, and pain in the neck, jaw, upper abdomen, or back. When having a heart attack, women may also experience dizziness, heartburn, and shortness of breath.
» Women face specific risk factors related to pregnancy and reproductive health including: an early first period, early menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome, gestational diabetes, preterm delivery, and the delivery of a low or high-weight infant.
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