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By Dr. Jaisingh Rajput

Heart disease has long been considered a “man’s disease,” but this outdated notion has led to delayed diagnosis and preventable deaths among women. According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, accounting for roughly one in every five female deaths. The American Heart Association (AHA) warns that despite the statistics; many women still underestimate their personal risk.

Unlike the dramatic chest-clutching pain often portrayed in men during a heart attack, women frequently experience atypical symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, back or jaw pain and lightheadedness. These symptoms are often misinterpreted as anxiety or indigestion, delaying timely care. Many women ignore or minimize these signs, leading to worse outcomes.

Risk factors for heart disease in women are similar to those in men — high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. However, certain female-specific risk factors — like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), early menopause, pregnancy-related complications (e.g., preeclampsia or gestational diabetes) — can increase a woman’s cardiovascular risk significantly.

Furthermore, emotional stress and depression, which are more prevalent in women, are strongly linked to heart disease. Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and inflammation, affecting heart health. The American Medical Association (AMA) recommends routine mental health screenings, especially in women with risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

The American Heart Association has introduced the “Go Red for Women” campaign, aiming to raise awareness and promote research focused on women’s heart health. This initiative encourages women to learn their family history, monitor blood pressure and cholesterol, and make heart-healthy lifestyle changes.

Prevention starts early. Women are encouraged to adopt the “Life’s Essential 8” from the AHA: eat a healthy diet, be physically active, quit smoking, get adequate sleep, manage weight, control cholesterol, manage blood sugar, and keep blood pressure in check. Annual physicals and routine cardiovascular risk assessments are crucial, even for young or seemingly healthy women.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and AHA also recommend that women over 40 undergo regular screening for cholesterol, diabetes, and blood pressure. Those with a history of preeclampsia or gestational diabetes should be closely monitored, as these are now recognized predictors of future heart disease.

Emergency response is critical. If any suspicious symptoms arise, especially shortness of breath, chest tightness, or unexplained fatigue, women should not delay seeking care. Calling 911 immediately and insisting on heart tests like ECGs and troponin levels could be life-saving.

Greater awareness among healthcare providers is also essential. Many physicians now receive training to recognize the subtle and atypical presentations of heart disease in women. Advocacy for equal attention to women’s cardiovascular health is steadily gaining ground.

Heart disease is not just a man’s issue—it’s a woman’s silent killer. With better education, proactive screening, and heart-healthy habits, women can significantly reduce their risk and live longer, healthier lives. Know your numbers, listen to your body, and advocate for your health.

Dr. Jaisingh Rajput and Dr. Prakakta Rajput are physicians specializing in hospital medicine and preventive health. They are dedicated to educating the public on stroke prevention and cardiovascular wellness.