The “Heart” Facts for Women

• Only 13% of US women believe that heart disease and stroke are their greatest health threats.
• Heart Disease is the leading cause of death for American women.
• Half of all US women will die of heart disease or stroke.
• 64% of women who die suddenly of CHD had no previous symptoms.
• Cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women than the next 7 leading causes of death combined.
• Women are, on average, ten years older than men at the time of their first heart attack and are more likely to die. 

Why Focus on Women and Heart Disease? 

• Research has shown that it is more difficult to diagnose Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) in women.
• Medical knowledge and improved management of CVD can reduce the risk and improve outcomes for women.
• Empowering women through awareness and education can reduce risk factors and prevent cardiovascular disease
• Stress may be associated with an increased risk of  heart disease in women for a number of reasons, including occupational factors, economic factors, and depression. 
• Depression is the most common psychological disorder among women and has also been found to increase the risk of heart disease.
• Most people are aware of the warning signs of a heart attack for men, but are not aware that the warning signs for women can be different.