Heart disease remains a critical public health issue in the U.S., affecting 5.5% of the population and standing as the leading cause of death. The most common form of heart disease is coronary artery disease and the incidence of heart disease is notably high in states like Georgia, where it accounts for one-third of all deaths. The numbers are stark: the average age of the first heart attack is 62 for men and 72 for women. These statistics underscore the importance of addressing this silent killer through both prevention and awareness.
Men vs. women: Gender differences in heart disease
While men are statistically more likely to develop heart disease — 7% in men compared to 4.2% in women—the types of heart conditions and their symptoms can differ significantly between genders. Men’s heart attacks are more commonly caused by blockages in the coronary arteries, whereas women are more likely to experience heart attacks without obstructed vessels, a condition known as MINOCA (Myocardial Infarction with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries). This is five times more prevalent in women.
Moreover, there are additional risk factors that uniquely affect women, including anemia during pregnancy, early menopause, endometriosis, hormonal birth control, autoimmune diseases and mental health disorders. While men and women share common risk factors—such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco use and family history — these gender-specific factors require further attention.
Symptoms: Recognizing the differences
One critical challenge in heart disease prevention and treatment is recognizing the differences in symptoms between men and women. Women often present with atypical symptoms like fatigue, nausea and indigestion, which can be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed. This lack of clarity in symptom presentation highlights the need for heightened awareness and gender-sensitive approaches to diagnosing heart disease.
Lifestyle changes: A key to prevention
Fortunately, heart disease is largely preventable through lifestyle changes. The most effective strategy involves regular exercise and a healthy diet. Cardiac exercise is crucial, with recommendations calling for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, water aerobics or doubles tennis. Alternatively, 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running, swimming laps or biking at 10 miles per hour or faster, can provide similar benefits. Incorporating activities like dancing, gardening or heavy yard work can also support heart health.
These physical activities, combined with a heart-healthy diet, can reduce many of the common risk factors for heart disease, making lifestyle modifications one of the most powerful tools for both prevention and treatment.
The role of annual testing and monitoring
Recent guidelines emphasize the importance of regular heart health monitoring. Annual tests such as a lipid profile, blood pressure and heart rate checks are essential. In cases where there is a higher risk or existing cardiovascular issues, an EKG (electrocardiogram) might also be necessary. These routine tests help to catch potential problems early, improving the chances of successful intervention.
Preventing heart disease in Georgia
Through community education programs, Northside Hospital Heart Institute raises awareness about heart health and provides critical screenings for lipid levels and diabetes — two major contributors to heart disease. Northside has also embarked on a project educating the community on how to perform basic CPR. The most vital intervention in saving lives after a cardiac arrest is the immediate initiation of CPR and calling 911.
Cutting-edge technology for cardiac care
New advancements in heart disease screening and diagnosis are also making a significant impact. At Northside, we offer accessible and affordable screening technologies, such as coronary calcium scoring, which helps assess a patient’s risk for heart disease. More advanced testing options, such as stress tests, echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), cardiac CTA (imaging of heart blood vessels using CT scans) and cardiac MRI, provide detailed insights into heart health. In cases where more invasive intervention is needed, heart catheterization can be used to detect blockages and insert stents.
Conclusion
Heart disease continues to be a significant health challenge across the U.S., particularly in states like Georgia. While men are statistically more at risk, women often face unique challenges related to symptom presentation and gender-specific risk factors. Early detection through regular testing, lifestyle changes and cutting-edge technology are crucial to preventing and managing heart disease.
Learn more from Northside Hospital Heart Institute.
Reference:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Heart Disease Prevalence." Last modified February 14, 2023. Accessed September 23, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/hus/topics/heart-disease-prevalence.htm.
