Women and heart disease round-up:
- Warning signs you should never ignore
- How heart disease in women is different than in men
- Special concerns during menopause
- Tips for a heart-healthy diet
Heart disease causes 1 in 3 women’s deaths each year, killing approximately one woman every minute. Since 1984, more women than men have died each year from heart disease, and the gap between men and women’s survival continues to widen.
Each year, the American Heart Association sponsors Go Red for Women, a national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women. Thousands of supporters wear red in February to show their support for the cause, raise awareness and bring education into the spotlight. It’s a great time for you to learn about how to reduce your risk of heart disease.
Your primary care doctor or cardiologist can help. Regular checkups and screenings provide the information you need to take charge of your heart health.
Know your numbers! It’s so important to be aware of your body and always manage your blood pressure, your cholesterol values and your weight.
“Know your numbers! It’s so important to be aware of your body and always manage your blood pressure, your cholesterol values and your weight. I would also recommend that everyone have a cholesterol panel done starting at age 20 to use as a baseline,” says Dr. Gerrie Gardner at Providence Medical Group.
With so many resources available to help you understand and reduce your risk for heart disease, there’s no reason to put it off.
With so many resources available to help you understand and reduce your risk for heart disease, there’s no reason to put it off. Make a commitment to your heart health today—for yourself and for the people who love and depend on you.
Here's a roundup of the most read articles from our blog regarding women and heart disease.
Women's heart health warning signs you shouldn't ignore
The signs and symptoms of heart disease can be subtle and sometimes confusing. Lori M. Tam, M.D., a cardiologist at the Providence Heart Institute in Portland, Oregon, and medical director of the Women’s Heart Program, talks about the signs you should never ignore. Find out more.
Heart disease is different for women than men
Gerrie Gardner, D.O., a cardiologist at Providence Medical Group in La Grande, Oregon, discusses how heart disease is different for men and women. What you need to know.
Heart disease and menopause
Menopause means that your menstrual cycle has permanently ended. It also can mean you are entering a phase of life in which your risk of heart disease is higher. Decreased estrogen production may play a role, but that’s not all. Learn more.
What is a heart-healthy diet?
According to the American Heart Association, 80% of heart disease and stroke events can be prevented by changes in lifestyle, including exercise, healthy diet and reduced stress. Think you know what a heart-healthy diet looks like? Get the details here.
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Find a doctor
A primary care doctor or cardiologist at Providence can help you understand your risk for heart disease and take steps to lower your risk. Search for one in our provider directory. Or use one of the regional directories below:
What motivates you to protect your heart health today? Share your inspiration with #heartmonth @psjh.
Related resources
5 surprising ways you may be damaging your heart
3 ways to lower blood pressure—beyond diet and exercise
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.
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