As we observe World Heart Day, it’s critical to highlight the unique challenges women face when it comes to heart diseases. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. For women, heart disease presents an even graver risk, often remaining unrecognised and underdiagnosed. Despite significant advancements in healthcare, there remains a dangerous misconception that heart disease is primarily a “man’s issue.” In reality, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, accounting for one-third of all female deaths worldwide.
The symptoms of heart disease in women can be different from those in men, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Women are more likely to experience subtler symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and nausea, which can be easily overlooked or attributed to less serious conditions. This often results in women not receiving the timely and appropriate care needed to manage heart disease effectively.
One of the significant issues in women’s cardiovascular health is the lack of awareness. Many women do not recognise their risk factors for heart disease. Traditional risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are just as relevant for women as they are for men. However, women also face gender-specific risk factors such as pregnancy-related conditions (e.g., preeclampsia and gestational diabetes), menopause, and autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, which increase their risk of developing heart disease.
Furthermore, societal and cultural factors play a role in the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of heart disease in women. Women often prioritise the health of their families over their own and may delay seeking medical care for themselves. Additionally, there is a gender bias in healthcare that can lead to women’s symptoms being dismissed or not taken as seriously as men’s.
To address these disparities, it is crucial to promote awareness and education about heart disease in women. Healthcare providers should be trained to recognise and understand the gender differences in heart disease presentation and management. Women should be encouraged to engage in regular cardiovascular screenings and adopt heart-healthy lifestyles. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, and managing stress.
Research is also vital in closing the gender gap in cardiovascular care. More studies focused on women’s heart health are needed to understand better the biological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to heart disease in women. Funding and support for such research can lead to more effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies tailored specifically for women.
Moreover, public health campaigns should target women of all ages, emphasising the importance of heart health and the steps they can take to reduce their risk. These campaigns can utilise various platforms, including social media, community events, and healthcare settings, to reach a broader audience and foster a culture of proactive heart health management.
Heart disease in women is a silent epidemic that requires urgent attention and action. By raising awareness, promoting education, and supporting research, we can address the gender disparities in cardiovascular care and ensure that women receive the recognition, diagnosis, and treatment they need. On this World Heart Day, let us commit to prioritising women’s heart health and working towards a future where heart disease is no longer the leading cause of death among women.
