By Kathryn Porter, APRN, ACNP-BC
February is American Heart Month, first celebrated by the American Heart Association in 1963 and later officially recognized by President Johnson in 1964. We recognize National Wear Red Day on the first Friday of the month, in honor of the Go Red for Women campaign which aims to raise awareness about heart disease in women.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. In fact, about 1 in 3 women die from cardiovascular disease (CVD) each year. This includes conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and stroke. Despite these high rates, many women are unaware of their risk and may not recognize heart disease as a major threat to their health. In fact, cardiovascular disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined.
Several factors can increase the risk of heart disease in both women and men. Some are controllable, while others are not. Controllable risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. These factors contribute to increased strain on the heart and arteries, raising the risk of heart disease. Uncontrollable factors include age, family history, gender, and genetics, with women’s risk rising after menopause. Chronic stress and untreated sleep apnea can also contribute to heart disease. Managing controllable risks through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, along with regular health check-ups, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and promote overall heart health.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects men and women differently in terms of age, symptoms, and contributing factors. Men typically develop CVD in their 40s or 50s, while women’s risk increases after menopause. Women often experience more subtle symptoms, like fatigue or shortness of breath, which can lead to delays in seeking treatment, delayed care, and even misdiagnosis. Risk factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure impact women more strongly, especially after menopause. This is partly due to a decrease in estrogen, which has a protective effect on the heart and blood vessels. As estrogen levels drop, women are more likely to experience changes in cholesterol levels, increased abdominal fat, and higher blood pressure, all of which significantly increase heart disease risk. Social and emotional factors can further complicate heart disease in women.
To reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in women and men, focus on these key interventions: Adopt a heart-healthy diet with plenty of fiber and proteins, while limiting ultra processed foods. Increase physical activity by incorporating weight training and moderate cardio into your routine. Quit smoking to prevent blood vessel damage and plaque buildup; Manage stress with relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga. Regular health screenings to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, and manage chronic conditions like diabetes. These changes, along with maintaining a healthy weight, can significantly lower heart disease risk and improve overall health. When risk factors extend beyond the control of diet and lifestyle, seek a knowledgeable health practitioner to guide you in your health journey, be that medication, screening, or referral to a cardiovascular specialist.
Take the next step in prioritizing your heart health! If you have any questions or would like personalized guidance on managing your cardiovascular risk, or are interested in discussing risk factor modification or assessing your personal risk, don’t hesitate to reach out. Katherine Porter at Hydrate30A (hydreight30a@gmail.com) and Margaret Russell at 850 Midlife (margaret@850midlife.com) are happy to discuss your concerns and help you chart a path to a healthier future!
Katherine Porter, APRN, ACNP-BC is the owner of Hydrate30A. She received a BSN from Auburn University and an MSN from UAB and has practiced locally as an acute care nurse practitioner since 2013. She can be contacted at hydreight30a@gmail.com
Margaret Russell, APRN, AGACNP-BC is the owner of 850 Midlife and has been in practice locally for more than a decade. If you are interested in discussing risk factor modification or assessing your personal risk, She may be reached at Margaret@850Midlife.com
Author: Sowal Editor
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