Heart disease, long perceived as a health issue primarily affecting men, is now emerging as a significant concern for women, with troubling trends showing an increase in heart attacks among younger females. Once thought to be protected by the hormone estrogen, women are now facing a surge in cardiac events, including among those in their 30s and 40s. Experts warn that this shift requires urgent attention and a proactive approach to prevention and treatment.
Estrogen’s Waning Shield: The Impact of Menopause
For many years, estrogen—a hormone naturally abundant in women—was considered a protective factor against heart disease. However, after menopause, estrogen levels drop, weakening this natural shield and leaving women more vulnerable to heart conditions.
Dr. Ravi Prakash, Senior Consultant in Cardiology at PSRI Hospital in Delhi, explained the change in heart disease trends: “A decade ago, heart attacks in women were mostly seen after menopause, around age 50 or older. Today, we are seeing severe heart attacks in women in their 30s and 40s,” he warned. This shift highlights the growing need for women to pay closer attention to their heart health as they age.
Heart Attacks Posing A Silent Threat
Heart attacks in women are often not as straightforward as those in men, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. While chest pain is a well-known symptom of a heart attack, it is less common in women. Instead, women may experience more subtle and atypical symptoms, such as digestive issues, dizziness, effort intolerance, and general weakness.
Dr. Prakash emphasized the importance of recognizing these warning signs: “Chest pain—one of the hallmark symptoms—is less common in women. Instead, they are more likely to experience digestive issues, effort intolerance, dizziness, or generalised weakness.” These symptoms can easily be mistaken for other health problems, causing women to delay seeking medical attention.
The Role of Lifestyle in Heart Attacks For Women’s Heart Health
Modern lifestyle changes have played a significant role in the rise of heart disease among women. Dr. Prateek Chaudhary, Senior Consultant in Interventional Cardiology at Asian Hospital in Delhi, pointed out several key factors contributing to the growing prevalence of heart disease, including poor eating habits, lack of exercise, high stress levels, and insufficient sleep.
In addition, sedentary lifestyles, which are becoming more common, contribute to obesity and other health issues that increase the risk of heart disease. Pregnancy, too, can have long-lasting effects on a woman’s heart health, adding another layer of risk.
Dr. Chaudhary noted the importance of addressing these lifestyle factors to reduce the risk of heart disease in women. “The modern lifestyle has placed women at greater risk due to factors like poor diet and high stress. These factors need to be addressed if we are to reduce the growing number of heart-related incidents,” he said.
Prevention: Essential for Protecting Heart Health
The experts stress that prevention and early diagnosis are crucial in tackling this growing threat to women’s heart health. Regular screenings are recommended for women over 35 to catch any early signs of heart disease before they become serious.
Dr. Prakash recommended several screening tools, saying, “Women over 35 should undergo regular screenings, including ECGs, echocardiograms, and cholesterol checks.” These screenings help detect any issues before they escalate into more severe problems.
Additionally, lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Dr. Prakash emphasized that up to 80% of heart-related issues can be resolved by adopting healthier habits, such as quitting smoking, managing stress, following a nutritious diet, and exercising regularly.
Dr. Chaudhary added, “Moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, is essential for maintaining heart health.” Exercise not only helps control weight but also reduces the risk of conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which are key contributors to heart disease.
The Growing Need for Awareness about Heart Attacks
With heart disease increasingly affecting younger women, awareness and early intervention have never been more important. As women face unique challenges in maintaining heart health, understanding the risk factors and symptoms of heart disease is essential. By taking proactive steps, including regular screenings and adopting healthier lifestyles, women can significantly reduce their risk and protect their long-term heart health.
The alarming rise of heart attacks in younger women serves as a wake-up call for both individuals and healthcare providers. As Dr. Prakash put it, “Women must be aware of their heart health, especially as they age and after menopause. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in preventing heart disease.”
