According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women over age 25. In fact, coronary artery disease, which causes heart attack, is the single leading cause of death for American women. Many women believe that cancer is more of a threat; however that is not the case. The American Heart Association has identified several factors that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke
- Increasing age
- Sex (Gender) — Men have a greater risk of heart attack than women. Each year about 55,000 more women than men have strokes, and about 60 percent of total stroke deaths occur in women.
- Heredity (family history)
- Previous heart attack or stroke or TIA
What risk factors can be modified, treated or controlled by focusing on lifestyle habits and taking medicine, if needed?
- Tobacco smoke
- High blood cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity and overweight
- Diabetes mellitus
What other factors contribute to the risk of heart disease and stroke in women?
- High triglyceride levels
- Excessive alcohol
- Individual response to stress
