What is the number one killer of women in the United States today? You might be surprised to learn that it isn’t breast cancer – or any type of cancer. This condition has traditionally been thought of as a men’s ailment. But that is changing, as more and more women become aware of the fact that the number one health risk they face is heart disease.

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, includes a number of conditions including coronary heart disease (also known as heart attack), stroke, disease of the heart valve or muscle, and sudden heart failure, or cardiac arrest.

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease kills over half a million American women each year. That’s more than the next seven causes of death combined. In addition, the AHA asserts that women are 15 percent more likely than men to die of a heart attack. And, during the six years following a heart attack, women are more likely than men to experience a second attack.

That’s the bad news. Now for the good: You can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease by addressing key risk factors in your life.
In fact, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, women who practice a heart healthy lifestyle can decrease their risk for heart disease by 82 percent.

No matter your lifestyle, there are certain risk factors that you cannot control. These include: gender, age, and heredity.  Risk for heart disease increases with age. In fact, a woman’s risk begins to increase significantly after menopause. 

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, heart disease rates are at least twice as high for

postmenopausal women than for those of the same age who have not yet undergone menopause.

Heart disease also tends to run in families. If you have relatives with a history of early heart disease, you are at increased risk for developing heart disease yourself.

There are four other main risk factors. One of these is smoking. Quit smoking (or better yet never start) and you’ll reduce your risk of heart disease.

The final three risk factors all involve treating and controlling other medical conditions. They are: high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. All of these conditions are known to increase your risk for heart disease. It’s important to follow the advice of your health care professional and treat these conditions exactly as prescribed.

Often treatment will involve maintaining your ideal body weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise. A healthy diet is one that is low in saturated fats and trans-fats, while being high in fiber, whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, fish, and folate-rich foods such as spinach. Exercising for 30 to 40 minutes three to five times per week can also help ensure heart health.

Although there have been numerous medical strides in treating heart disease in the last decade, there is no easy fix. In addition to medical intervention, some of the best weapons against heart disease are lifestyle changes partnered with both women and men investing in their health through education and knowledge. Knowing the risk factors and symptoms, and taking preventative steps can empower you to become your own best advocate when it comes to heart disease.

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Dr. Mork is a board certified family practice physician at Raiter Clinic in Cloquet.