Heart Disease and Women

What Every Woman in Western Pennsylvania Should KnowHeart disease is the number one cause of death for women in the United States, yet many women still believe it is primarily a men’s health issue. In reality, heart disease claims the lives of more women each year than all forms of cancer combined. Increasing awareness, early detection, and prevention are key to saving lives — especially here in Western Pennsylvania, where rates of heart disease and related risk factors remain high.

Why Heart Disease in Women Is Often Missed

Women may experience different symptoms of heart disease than men. While chest pain is common, women are more likely to report:

  • Shortness of breath

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Fatigue

  • Jaw, neck, shoulder, or back pain

  • Lightheadedness or dizziness

Because these symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions, women are often underdiagnosed or treated later, which can lead to worse outcomes.

Risk Factors Unique to Women

In addition to traditional risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity, women face unique risks, including:

  • Pregnancy-related conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes

  • Early menopause

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

  • Autoimmune diseases, which affect women more frequently

Understanding personal risk and discussing it regularly with a healthcare provider is essential.

Prevention Starts with Everyday Choices

The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of Life’s Essential 8™, which include:

  • Eating a heart-healthy diet

  • Staying physically active

  • Maintaining a healthy weight

  • Not smoking or vaping

  • Getting adequate sleep

  • Managing blood pressure

  • Controlling cholesterol

  • Managing blood sugar

Small, consistent changes can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease at any age.

Go Red for Women® and National Wear Red Day

Every February, during American Heart Month, communities across the country participate in Go Red for Women®, a national movement dedicated to ending heart disease and stroke in women.

National Wear Red Day® takes place on the first Friday in February. On this day, people are encouraged to wear red.

Advice for Women

Healthcare providers encourage women to:

  • Schedule regular checkups and preventive screenings

  • Know their blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar numbers

  • Recognize heart attack warning signs that may differ from men

  • Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms feel unusual or persistent

Heart disease is largely preventable, and awareness is the first step. Women are encouraged to speak up for their health, ask questions, and take action early.