Women’s Cardiovascular Health Initiative

Heart Disease claims the lives of approximately 500,000 women each year.
Women are the most underdiagnosed and undertreated population for Cardiovascular Disease.
Women do not always have “typical” symptoms. They are often just tired, short of breath, or simply feel different.

Download the Women’s Cardiovascular Health Initiative Brochure.

The Facts:

According to the American Heart Association Cardiovascular Disease takes the lives of more women every year than men. Women make up 52% of the total cardiovascular disease (CVD) population. As women, we are accutely aware of breast cancer and receive regular screenings, however, stroke and heart disease deaths far outpace breast cancer.

Clinical trials have been conducted primarily on men, therefore women have been seriously under represented.
Studies show that women, especially minority women, are not as likely to receive treatment for heart disease as men.
Recent reports show that most primary care physicians still think of CVD as a man’s disease.

What You Can Do Now

Lifestyle changes can make a significant impact on your risk for cardiovascular disease. Certain preventative practices have been shown to have a positive effect on reducing risk factors for CVD.

Limit your intake of total fats. Switch to unsaturated fats and eliminate trans-fatty acids.
Increase your consumption of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or plant sources.
Eat a diet high in vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains and low in refined grains.
Avoid excessively salty or sugary foods.
Engage in at least 30 minutes of regular physical activity daily.
Avoid smoking or using other tobacco products.
Maintain a healthy weight.

Know the Signs

Common Symptoms of Heart Attack in Women
(may often differ from men)

Shortness of breath
Weakness and/or unusual fatigue
Cold sweats, dizziness or fainting
Nausea and/or vomiting
Pain or pressure in the back or high chest
Pain or discomfort in one or both arms (discomfort may be described as pressure, ache or tightness, or it may come and go)
A burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen
Irregular heartbeat
Undiagnosed jaw or ear pain

Know Your Numbers

The following numbers are key indicators for reducing your risk for heart disease.

Total Cholesterol: < 200
LDL (Bad) Cholesterol: < 100
HDL (Good) Cholesterol: 50 or higher
Triglycerides: < 150
Blood Pressure: < 130/85
Fasting Glucose: < 100
Body Mass Index (BMI): < 25
Waist Circumference: < 35 inches
Heart Ejection Fraction (EF): > 55%

Women’s Cardiovascular Risk Profile Includes:

EKG: 12 leads placed on chest to measure the electrical activity of the heart and obtain historical data.
CIMT: (Carotid Intima Media Thickness) Sound waves are used to measure thickness of the carotid artery where plaque first develops. Results provide an estimate of your vascular age compared to your actual age.
Echocardiogram: Sound waves are used to screen your valves and heart muscle. Images show how your heart is beating and pumping blood.
Risk assessment by a mid-level provider: A female Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant will discuss the results of your test, answer questions and make appropriate recommendations.