Protecting Your Heart as Self-Care

How Heart Disease Affects Women

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, yet many women are unaware of their individual risk. Recognizing how heart disease uniquely affects women and knowing what you can do to prevent it is critical. Cardiovascular disease includes heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and high blood pressure. Nearly 60% of Black women aged 20 and older have one of these conditions—a rate much higher than in other ethnic groups. Data shows that Black women are 2.4 times more likely than white women to develop heart disease during their lifetime.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for Black women in the United States. The biggest risk factors for heart disease are hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and physical inactivity. According to the American Heart Association, 58.4% of Black women have hypertension, and 57% are classified as obese. Currently, Black women have the highest burden of cardiovascular disease of all US women. Additionally, Black women are more likely to develop diabetes, which further increases the risk for heart disease.

Most risk factors for heart disease can be prevented. Start with regular check-ups and routine tests for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Aim for 30-40 minutes of exercise, 4-5 days a week. Choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats (such as chicken, fish, or turkey), and limit simple carbohydrates like bread, rice, potatoes, soda, and cake for optimal heart health.

Your heart health is too important to leave to chance. Schedule a wellness visit this month to review your risk factors, update your screenings, and create a personalized prevention plan. Knowledge is power. Know your risks. Advocate for yourself. Protect your heart!

Here’s to Your Health!