Heart health discussions often focus on general risks, but the cardiovascular health of women is still frequently overlooked. Even though heart disease is the leading cause of death among women worldwide, many people still assume it mainly affects men. This misconception has contributed to a major gender gap in healthcare, where diagnostic standards and research have historically focused more on male patients. Because of this, the symptoms and warning signs of heart disease in women are often misunderstood, ignored, or diagnosed late, which can delay lifesaving treatment.
Cardiologist Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, who specialises in advanced heart failure and heart transplants, recently highlighted several important facts about women’s cardiovascular health. Speaking in a video shared on social media for International Women’s Day, he explained that heart disease often develops and presents differently in women compared with men. Understanding these differences can help women recognise early warning signs and seek timely medical care.
1. Heart disease is the top cause of death in women
Many people still believe heart disease mainly affects men, but the reality is different. According to cardiologists, heart disease remains the number one cause of death among women globally. Because of the widespread misconception that it is a “male disease,” women may not always recognise their own risk or take early preventive measures.
2. Symptoms of heart attacks can be different for women
Unlike the classic symptom of severe chest pain often associated with men, women may experience more subtle warning signs. These can include nausea, unusual tiredness, dizziness, pain in the jaw, or difficulty breathing. Because these symptoms can appear mild or unrelated to the heart, they are sometimes ignored or mistaken for other health issues.
3. Heart attacks may be more dangerous for women
Studies suggest that women face a higher risk of dying within the first year after a heart attack compared with men. One major reason is delayed diagnosis. Since symptoms can be atypical, women often receive treatment later than they should, which increases the risk of complications.
4. Heart disease may develop differently in women
The way plaque builds up in arteries can vary between men and women. In some cases, women develop heart disease in patterns that traditional diagnostic tests may not easily detect. This difference means doctors may need specialised testing methods to identify cardiovascular problems earlier.
5. Emotional well-being plays a key role in heart health
Mental health is closely connected to cardiovascular health, especially for women. Stress, anxiety, and depression can have a stronger impact on the heart in women, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease and other complications over time.
6. Risk increases after menopause
Hormonal changes during menopause can significantly raise the risk of cardiovascular problems. A drop in estrogen levels can affect blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the overall health of blood vessels, making women more vulnerable to heart disease as they age.
7. Women sometimes receive less aggressive treatment
Research has shown that women are less likely to receive certain medical procedures, medications, or emergency interventions such as CPR compared with men. This treatment gap continues to highlight the importance of improving awareness and equality in healthcare systems.
8. Many heart diseases can be prevented
Despite these challenges, experts emphasise that most heart diseases are preventable. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, staying physically active, and attending regular health checkups can significantly reduce the chances of developing serious cardiovascular conditions.
Doctors also remind people that the heart works continuously every second of life, making regular care and awareness essential. By understanding the unique risks women face, individuals can take proactive steps to protect long-term heart health.
