While it is true that men are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), heart disease is deadlier for women. The reason could be the misconception that heart disease is a “male problem.”

When women experience symptoms, they often disregard them, thinking that the slight pain will go away; however most heart attacks start with slight chest discomfort. The fact that these symptoms are often ignored in women makes treating their heart disease difficult.

As with any disease, prevention is your best defense, but early detection is a close runner-up. Dr. Meryl Braunstein, a doctor with Atlanta Heart Associates, is educating her patients, along with the community, about early detection. “It is critically important for women—of any age—to mention symptoms to their physician,” she says.

In correlation with American Heart Month, Atlanta Heart Associates would like to remind women of their risk:

• CVD is the leading cause of death in women
• One in 2.5 women will eventually die of CVD as opposed to one in 30 from breast cancer
• The death rate for CVD is higher in minority women
• Nearly 40% of deaths in women are due to CVD
• 38% of women will die within 1 year of a heart attack, whereas only 25 % of men will die within 1 year
• CVD kills more people each year than all forms of cancer combined
  

*Statistics provided by American Heart Association, 2006

It’s important to understand and assess your risk factors. The first step is getting a check-up. All women—especially busy women—need to take some time to visit the doctor.

Remember—nothing is more important than your health! If you have any questions regarding cardiac care, nutrition or physical activity, contact Atlanta Heart Associates at 770-692-4000. Happy Heart Month from Atlanta Heart Associates!