Heart Disease: A Silent Killer Among Women in the US
Heart disease has long been associated with men, but recent studies have revealed a startling truth – it is the leading cause of death among women in the United States. Despite this alarming fact, only about half of women are aware of the risks, signs, and symptoms of heart attacks. On National Wear Red Day, observed on February 2nd to raise awareness for cardiovascular disease, CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook joined “CBS Mornings” to shed light on this issue and share crucial information that every woman should know.
Breaking the Stereotype
“It’s a dangerous misconception that heart disease is somehow exclusively a male disease,” Dr. LaPook emphasized. “It’s the No. 1 killer in women.” The purpose of National Wear Red Day is to bring attention to this fact because awareness and understanding can save lives. It’s time to shatter the stereotype and recognize that heart disease poses a significant threat to women’s health.
Recognizing the Signs
Dr. LaPook highlighted the most common symptoms of heart attacks in women, which include chest pain and shortness of breath. However, he also noted that there can be more atypical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and pain in the jaw, back, or other areas. It is crucial for women to be aware of these signs and seek medical attention promptly if they experience any of them.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Several risk factors contribute to heart disease in women. High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and inactivity are some of the key factors that increase the likelihood of developing heart-related issues. Dr. LaPook stressed the importance of access to care, stating that being able to see a doctor is vital in managing these risk factors effectively.
The Power of Prevention
“No smoking!” Dr. LaPook exclaimed. He attributed a significant drop in heart disease rates to the decline in smoking. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease. However, prevention goes beyond that. Knowing your numbers early on, such as weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, is crucial in monitoring heart health. Dr. LaPook emphasized that this should be a lifelong commitment, starting from birth, with a focus on maintaining a healthy weight and being aware of key health indicators.
Heart Health and Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be considered a “big stress test” for women’s hearts, according to Dr. LaPook. Just as one wouldn’t start training for a marathon the day before, it is essential to enter pregnancy with good overall health. This includes having access to care, knowing your numbers, and maintaining a healthy weight. Dr. LaPook also highlighted the heightened concerns for Black women, who face an increased mortality rate during pregnancy. He acknowledged that addressing this issue requires addressing social determinants of health, such as access to good housing, food, and unbiased healthcare.
Raising Awareness for a Healthier Future
Heart disease is a silent killer among women in the United States. The lack of awareness surrounding this issue is concerning, but initiatives like National Wear Red Day aim to change that. By understanding the signs, recognizing the risk factors, and prioritizing prevention, women can take control of their heart health. It is time to break the stereotype and ensure that every woman has access to the care and knowledge needed to live a heart-healthy life.
About the Author
Sara Moniuszko is a health and lifestyle reporter at CBSNews.com. With her expertise in wellness and breaking news, she aims to keep readers informed about the latest developments in healthcare. Previously writing for USA Today, Sara was selected to help launch the newspaper’s wellness vertical. Now, as part of CBS News’ HealthWatch team, she continues to provide valuable insights into health-related topics.
