The heart, about the size of a fist, moves blood through the body’s circulatory system, but heart disease – heart attack, high blood pressure and high cholesterol – is often seen as a “man’s problem,” it’s a problem for women. Affects the same, although often with different symptoms. This may make diagnosis more difficult, putting women at greater risk due to unknown signs and misconceptions.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle on the eve of World Heart Day 2024, Dr. Srikanth Shetty, Director and HOD, Department of Cardiology at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, exposed some myths about women’s heart health.
Myth 1: Heart disease only affects men
Every year, more women than men suffer from coronary artery disease, which challenges the perception that heart disease primarily affects men. In India, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, accounting for about 18% of female deaths. Women not only face higher mortality rates, but also experience worse outcomes after heart attacks, often receive delayed treatment and receive fewer prescriptions for important medications such as statins and blood thinners. .
Myth 2: Heart disease only affects older women
A common myth is that heart disease only affects older women, especially after menopause. While it’s true that the risk increases with age, younger women are not exempt. Factors such as smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes and family history can trigger cardiovascular problems in women long before menopause. Stress and lifestyle choices also play an important role in young women’s heart health. Women in their 20s and 30s may still face heart disease, especially if they have a genetic predisposition or lead an unhealthy lifestyle.
Myth 3: Heart attack symptoms are always obvious
Women are also at risk for “silent” heart attacks, where symptoms are less dramatic but just as dangerous. Recognizing these signs is essential for prompt intervention. They may experience discomfort in the stomach or jaw, pressure on the chest that spreads to the arms, neck or back, sudden shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, dizziness, extreme fatigue or even indigestion.
Myth 4: Cholesterol problems only affect men
Cholesterol in the bloodstream comes from the liver and some foods. Statins reduce liver-made cholesterol, reducing blood cholesterol levels and the risk of plaque formation. However, consuming foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat may reduce the effectiveness of statins, potentially leading to unchanged or increased cholesterol levels. Many women mistakenly believe that cholesterol problems primarily affect men, but high LDL cholesterol poses a risk to everyone. Women, in particular, should monitor their cholesterol closely, especially after menopause when the drop in estrogen increases the risk of heart disease.
Myth 5: Heart disease is less of a concern than breast cancer
While breast cancer is the most common cancer in women globally, heart disease is the leading cause of death, more than all cancers combined.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
