Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the United States—yet many women still underestimate their risk. Cardiologist Megha Penmetsa, MD, with Lexington Health Heart and Vascular Center says that awareness is one of the most powerful tools women can use to protect their heart health.
"Women are often underdiagnosed when it comes to heart disease, which is why understanding your risk factors and symptoms is critically important, especially as you age," Dr. Penmetsa explains.
How Heart Disease Differs Between Men and Women
While heart disease is more common in men than in premenopausal women, that advantage changes quickly.
"After menopause, women's risk of heart disease rises significantly and becomes equal to that of men," says Dr. Penmetsa.
One reason for the underdiagnosis in women is that symptoms are sometimes less obvious or fall outside the "classic" pattern of chest pain that's commonly taught. That makes early education and routine healthcare visits especially important.
Understanding Risk Factors Unique to Women
Women share many of the same risk factors as men—high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. But several health conditions uniquely affect women, increasing their risk later in life. These include:
- High blood pressure or diabetes during pregnancy
- Preeclampsia
- Early menopause (before age 40)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
"Some of these risks can surprise women, especially those tied to pregnancy and menopause," Dr. Penmetsa notes. "But recognizing them early allows us to take proactive steps toward prevention.” Even a single pregnancy complicated by high blood pressure can double a woman's future risk of heart disease—an important reason postpartum and lifelong follow-up care matter.
Lifestyle Choices That Make a Difference
The good news: many daily habits can significantly reduce heart disease risk.
Smoking is one of the top preventable causes of heart disease worldwide, responsible for nearly 6 million deaths each year. It also increases the likelihood of a first heart attack more in women than in men. Dr. Penmetsa urges women who smoke to take the first step toward quitting.
Excess weight, physical inactivity, and chronic stress further add to cardiovascular strain. Even small changes create momentum. A brisk 30-minute walk, 3 to 5 times a week, can meaningfully improve heart health.
Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
Heart attacks affect both men and women, but women are more likely to die from one—often because they don't recognize the warning signs.
Common symptoms shared by both genders include:
- Chest pressure or discomfort
- Pain radiating to the left arm or jaw
- Sweating
But women may also experience symptoms that don't seem heart-related:
- Pain between the shoulder blades
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Shortness of breath
These "atypical" symptoms can be misleading. "Heart attacks don't always announce themselves the way we expect—especially in women," Dr. Penmetsa emphasizes. "If something feels off, don't wait. Seek medical attention right away."
What Every Woman Should Know
Heart disease is both common and, in many cases, preventable. Understanding individual risk—based on personal health history, lifestyle, and life stages like pregnancy and menopause—empowers women to take control.
“I hope that women feel informed and confident advocating for their heart health," Dr. Penmetsa says. "Simple lifestyle changes and regular conversations with your healthcare provider can truly help you live a longer, healthier life."
For additional resources on women's heart health, visit the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women initiative.
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