Heart Disease: The Leading Killer of Women and What You Need to Know

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, accounting for one in five female deaths. Unlike men, women may experience different symptoms during a heart attack, including fatigue, nausea, and back pain, in addition to chest pain. Dr. Edith Jones-Poland from the American Heart Association emphasizes that early screening—starting as young as age 10 for cholesterol—along with regular check-ins with a primary care provider, is crucial for identifying risk factors. Key health indicators include blood pressure, BMI, waist circumference, cholesterol, and A1C levels.

Most heart disease in women is preventable through lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking. Dr. Jones-Poland also highlighted the importance of hands-only CPR, noting that bystanders are often hesitant to perform CPR on women. Her message to women is to know their numbers, understand their individual risks, and develop a proactive plan to maintain heart health.