Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women, yet awareness of risk and warning signs is low

Heart disease continues to be the foremost health threat facing women, yet a significant number remain unaware of their personal risk or the varied symptoms that may signal a cardiac event, medical specialists say. February marks Heart Health Month and February 3 is recognised in the United States as National Women Physicians Day, drawing attention to this persistent public health challenge.

Cardiovascular disease claims more lives than any other condition across both sexes, with one in three women dying from some form of heart disease. Data from health experts indicate that about 45 percent of women in the United States aged 20 and above live with cardiovascular disease. Even more concerning is the trend of younger age groups being affected, due to factors that increase the likelihood of coronary artery disease at earlier stages of life.

Dr Anjali Gulati, a cardiologist at Good Samaritan Hospital in San Jose, emphasises the importance of early recognition of signs and symptoms. Classic indicators include chest pain, tightness or discomfort. Yet women often experience signs that do not fit the traditional profile. Around one in three women may report pain in the arms, back or shoulders, a general feeling of unease or anxiety, light-headedness, severe fatigue, shortness of breath, indigestion or heart palpitations.

Because heart disease can manifest in diverse ways, Dr Gulati advises women to consult healthcare providers about heart health as early as their twenties. Early assessment and dialogue can play a critical role in risk management and prevention.

To mitigate risk, specialists recommend women monitor and manage key health indicators. These include blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, maintaining a balanced diet, weight management, quitting smoking, ensuring sufficient sleep and engaging in regular physical activity. Such measures are central to primary prevention of heart disease.

For further resources and information on heart health, the Good Samaritan Hospital website offers guidance and educational material.