Posted on: February 9, 2022
Did you know that heart disease is on the rise and is the leading cause of death for women worldwide? Yet, women everywhere are under-studied, under-diagnosed, under-treated, and under-aware when it comes to their cardiovascular health.
Heart attack symptoms go unrecognized in over 50% of women, and women are more likely to present with 3 or more symptoms in addition to chest pain. The causes of heart disease and risk factors can be different for women than men.
Certain conditions lead to a greater risk in women, including various pregnancy complications, earlier menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome, systemic inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, cigarette smoking, and diabetes.
Despite the differences, there is a lot we can all do to help reduce the risk! Heart disease is largely preventable, considering that 80% of a woman's risk factors are modifiable. For example, we can be active and keep moving, eat a variety of nutritious foods, manage stress, limit tobacco, alcohol and substance use, and get regular health check ups
Wear Red Canada day is celebrated annually across Canada on February 13th to raise awareness about women's heart health. Organized events held across the country serve as a reminder for all people in Canada, but especially women, to be mindful, curious, and proactive in the management of their cardiovascular health and wellness.
Please join us by wearing red on February 13th and spreading the above key messages with the hashtag #HerHeartMatters on social media. Visit wearredcanada.ca for more information.