Heart disease is the # 1 killer of Women in the United States. Any one of us could be at risk without knowing it.

Increase your knowledge. Take care of yourself and your heart health. Others could be depending on you.

Did You Know?
Heart disease kills more American women than all forms of cancer combined, including breast cancer.1

• A woman's lifetime risk for developing heart disease is very high-
  more than 1 in 2.1
• As you age, your risk for heart disease increases.1
• More than 60% of women who died suddenly from coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms.1
• Many women of color, including black, Latino, and Native American women are more likely to develop risk factors and are at a higher risk of death from heart disease, yet they are less likely to recognize their risks.2
• Women who have a general awareness about heart disease are more likely to have a positive impact on their family's health, as well as their own health.2

 How Can You Tell If You Are at Risk?

Many different risk factors (conditions or lifestyle habits) can affect your chance of developing heart disease.4 It's important to understand which risk factors affect you and what actions you can take to lower your risk of developing heart disease.

Symptoms and Warning Signs.

About every minute in the United States, a woman dies of heart disease.1 It is important to know that not all heart attacks are sudden and intense; most heart attacks start out slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. As with men, for women the most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience signs and symptoms unrelated to chest pain, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain. According to the American Heart Association, here are some signs that a heart attack may be happening:

• Check discomfort: Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body: Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one of both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
• Shortness of breath: Often without chest pain of any kind.
• Other signs of discomfort: Cold sweats, nausea/vomiting, lightheadedness or dizziness, or unusual fatigue.

If you even suspect these symptoms, call your doctor. If you or someone you know is having one ore more of the symptoms, don't wait more than a few minutes to call for help.

Call 9-1-1 for the fastest way to receive lifesaving treatment.

Visit Your Doctor Regularly

Nothing replaces a discussion with your doctor or health care provider. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors- choose two or three questions most relevant to you and write down the answers.

Take Charge of Your Heart Health.  Here are Some Tips to Get You Started

DON'T SMOKE AND AVOID.

People who smoke are up to six times more likely to suffer a heart attack than non-smokers. If you smoke, QUIT!

AIM FOR A HEALTHY WEIGHT.

If you don't know your ideal weight, ask your doctor. The more overweight you are--the higher your risk for heart disease.

GET MOVING.

Make a commitment to be more physically active. Every day, aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity such as taking a brisk walk, raking, dancing, light weight lifting, house cleaning, or gardening.

EAT FOR HEART HEALTH.

Choose a diet low in saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and cholesterol. Be sure to include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS.

Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol (total, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides), and blood glucose. Work with your doctor to improve any numbers that are not normal.

Please note: This information is not a substitute for medical care. As always, you should consult your doctor or health care provider.

Source: Content provided and maintained by Close the Gap