Is Heart Disease a Bigger Threat to Women Than We Think?

Heart disease is a leading cause of death among Indian women, yet it remains largely overlooked due to persistent misconceptions. Many associate cardiovascular diseases primarily with men, even though heart disease accounts for approximately 18% of female deaths, surpassing breast cancer and all other cancers combined.

Heart Disease Statistics: Men vs. Women

Category	Men (%)	Women (%)
Heart Disease Mortality Rate	25%	18%
Coronary Heart Disease Cases	6%	6.25%
Post-Menopause Heart Conditions	-	8%

 

Symptoms and Risk Factors

The most common symptom of heart attack in both men and women is chest pain. However, women often experience additional, more subtle signs such as:

·         Upper arm pain or aching

·         Unusually fast heartbeat

·         Nausea and fatigue

·         Shortness of breath

·         Excessive sweating

·         Light-headedness or dizziness

Furthermore, emotional stress can trigger these symptoms, making diagnosis more challenging.

Types of Heart Diseases More Common in Women

Coronary artery disease manifests differently in women, often with lesser arterial blockages but a higher prevalence of coronary microvascular disease (small vessel heart disease). Women post-menopause are also more likely to suffer from cardiomyopathy, a condition where heart muscles weaken, leading to heart failure even in the absence of arterial blockages.

Heart Condition	Prevalence in Women (%)
Coronary Microvascular Disease	10%
Cardiomyopathy	8%
Small Vessel Heart Disease	12%

Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

Despite advances in medical technology, heart failure remains a challenge to manage. Women aged 45-70 years are at a higher risk due to reduced physical activity and increased stress from work and home responsibilities. A significant obstacle in treating heart disease in women is misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis due to non-traditional symptoms.

Treatment Options: Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT)

One of the promising treatments for heart failure is Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT). This therapy helps synchronize uncoordinated ventricular contractions, ensuring better heart function. It involves implanting a biventricular pacemaker, which sends electrical signals to the heart's lower chambers to improve coordination.

Treatment Option	Function
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT)	Improves blood pumping efficiency
Medications	Controls blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Lifestyle Changes	Reduces stress and improves heart health

Raising Awareness and Preventative Measures

Addressing heart disease as a critical health hazard for women requires an integrated approach. Increasing awareness through educational campaigns can help disseminate information about risk factors and the importance of healthy lifestyle choices.

Key Preventative Strategies:

1.       Encouraging Regular Physical Activity: Moderate exercise reduces heart disease risk.

2.       Promoting Healthy Eating Habits: A balanced diet with low saturated fats and sugars.

3.       Managing Stress: Mindfulness practices and strong social support networks.

4.       Regular Check-Ups: Early detection through routine screenings and health assessments.

Conclusion

Despite its high mortality rate, heart disease in women is often underestimated. Awareness, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options like Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) can significantly reduce fatalities. Women must recognize the symptoms and seek medical attention at the earliest signs to prevent severe complications.

References

1.       National Institute of Cardiovascular Health (2022). Heart Disease in Women: An Overlooked Epidemic.

2.       Indian Medical Research Council (2023). Trends in Cardiovascular Diseases Among Indian Women.

3.       World Health Organization (WHO). Heart Disease Mortality and Prevention Strategies (2021).

4.       American Heart Association (2022). Understanding Coronary Microvascular Disease.