Heart Disease -
Every Woman's Concern
Protecting your heart is worth the effort. You probably know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. But, if you are like most people, you will be surprised to learn that it is also the leading cause of death in women. Heart disease accounts for more than 40 percent of all deaths in women each year. However, you can reduce your risk of heart disease by becoming aware of your risk factors:
Your AGE...
- You are a woman over 55 years old, or you have passed menopause or had your ovaries removed.
Your FAMILY HISTORY...
- You have a close blood relative who had a heart attack before age 55 (if father or brother) or before age 65 (if mother or sister)
Cigarette and tobacco SMOKE...
- Researchers found cigarette smoking was the most important individual risk factor.
Your total CHOLESTEROL levels...
- Your total cholesterol level is 200 mg/dl or higher.
- Your HDL ("good") cholesterol level is less than 50 mg/dl.
- You don't know your total cholesterol or HDL levels.
Your BLOOD PRESSURE...
- Your blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg or higher or you have been told that your blood pressure is too high.
- You don't know what your blood pressure is.
PHYSICAL INACTIVITY...
- You get less than a total of 30 minutes of physical activity on at least three days per week.
Excess BODY WEIGHT...
- You are 20 pounds or more overweight.
DIABETES ...
- You have diabetes or take medicine to control your blood sugar.
Your MEDICAL HISTORY...
- You have coronary artery disease, or you have had a heart attack.
- You have an abnormal heartbeat.
Knowledge plus action equals power
The breakdown in communication is disturbing. To ensure that you get the latest and most accurate information, take charge of your health. Make it a point to ask your doctor about the risks you face as a woman and the preventive measures you should take. If you don't understand an answer, ask again.
Health care is changing. Now, more than ever, women must take more responsibility for their own and their families' health care. Start taking steps now:
- Learn more about your risk factors.
- Reduce the risk factors you can control.
- Learn to relax and find ways to deal with stress.
- Know the warning signs of heart attack and don't delay in getting medical help.
Nothing could be more important than arming yourself with the knowledge to battle heart disease. Knowledge, coupled with action, is power!
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