heart disease and women

According to the American Academy of Family physicians, heart disease has been identified as the leading cause of death among women over 65 years of age.  It is estimated that women are 4- 6 times more likely to die of heart disease than of breast cancer.  In addition, heart disease affects and has fatal consequences for more women over age 65 than all cancers combined.

 
Women develop heart related issues later in life than men. Generally 7 or 8 years later, but by age 65 statistics bear out a woman’s risk is equal to that of a man.
 
Of course, preventative measures are key since women are less likely to survive heart attacks than are men.  The medical field has not yet been able to explain why, however it is theorized by medical experts that because women’s hearts are smaller, their blood vessels are at higher risk for damage.  In focusing on prevention, it is vital to fully understand all the leading factors that contribute to heart disease- such as smoking, high blood pressure high cholesterol, family history, genetic predisposition and age.
 
It is impossible to control family history, and age, yet steps can be taken while under a doctor’s care to make needed lifestyle changes to help decrease risk factors.
 
Here are recommended steps for women to prevent heart disease:
 
Smoking has been identified as the greatest risk factor for heart disease in women.  It is estimated that more than half of the heart attacks in women under 50 years of age, are directly related to smoking. In addition, women who smoke while taking birth control pills are at an even higher risk.
 
Women need to schedule time to consult with their primary care physicians concerning treatments as they prepare to quit smoking- such as skin patches and some over the counter medication that may help. Some doctors highly recommend hypnosis as a way to help in the process of quitting.
 
It is important for women to have regular blood pressure screenings to determine levels. A doctor will be able to provide prescriptions for medications to reduce blood pressure.  Sometimes patients may have to make changes in diet such as reducing sodium intake to maintain normal blood pressure levels.
 
Exercise regularly: It is suggested that before undertaking any exercise program, one’s doctor be consulted first.  Bear in mind, that as a result of the heart being a muscle like the other muscles in one’s body - it needs exercise. 

Many fitness experts recommend 30- 60 minutes of aerobic exercise at least four times a week including: jogging, brisk walking, cycling, or weight training.  Pilates is also a wonderful way to exercise the body and develop long, lean muscle.  There is a lot of information on Pilates on the internet.  No special equipment is needed to get started.