The heart, roughly the size of a fist, drives blood throughout the circulatory system. Although heart disease—including heart attacks, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol—is often perceived as a “man’s issue,” it affects women equally, albeit with different symptoms. This disparity can complicate diagnoses, heightening risks due to overlooked signs and widespread misconceptions. Here, we debunk some myths surrounding women’s heart health.
Myth 1: Heart Disease Only Affects Men
The notion that heart disease predominantly impacts men is misleading; more women die from coronary artery disease annually than men. In India, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, accounting for nearly 18% of female fatalities. Women often experience higher mortality rates and poorer outcomes after heart attacks, partially due to delays in treatment and fewer prescriptions for crucial medications like statins and blood thinners.
Myth 2: Heart Disease Only Affects Older Women
While the risk of heart disease does increase with age, younger women are not exempt. Factors such as smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, family history, and stress can contribute to heart issues in women well before menopause. Women in their 20s and 30s can be affected, especially if they have genetic predispositions or unhealthy lifestyles.
Myth 3: Heart Attack Symptoms Are Always Obvious
Women are often susceptible to “silent” heart attacks, where symptoms are less pronounced but equally perilous. Recognizing signs such as stomach or jaw discomfort, chest pressure radiating to the arms, neck, or back, sudden shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, dizziness, extreme fatigue, or indigestion is crucial.
Myth 4: Cholesterol Issues Only Affect Men
Many women mistakenly believe that cholesterol problems primarily affect men. However, high LDL cholesterol poses a risk to everyone. Women, particularly post-menopause, should closely monitor their cholesterol levels, as decreasing estrogen levels elevate heart disease risk.
Myth 5: Heart Disease is Less of a Concern Than Breast Cancer
While breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women globally, heart disease remains the leading cause of death, surpassing all cancers combined.
