February 1, 2022

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in five American women die from heart disease than any other cause. There are ways you can lower your risk every day. This American Heart Month is a wonderful opportunity to take an active role in your health and learn what it takes to keep your heart healthy to help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Show your heart some LOVE and take an active role in keeping your heart healthy with these tips.

• Know the signs of a heart attack.

Did you know the signs of a heart attack can be different for women than for men? While the most common symptom for both women and men is chest discomfort, you can have a heart attack without experiencing chest pain or pressure. Learn more about the signs of a heart attack.

• Manage your health conditions and know your risk factors.

Nine out of 10 women have at least one risk factor for heart disease. Risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and a family history of premature heart disease. All can increase your risk of heart disease. OWH has resources to help you talk to your healthcare provider about FDA-approved medicines to treat high blood pressure and diabetes, and to help you quit smoking. 

• Get the facts about aspirin. 

Daily use of aspirin to prevent a heart attack or stroke is not right for everyone. Know the facts about taking aspirin for reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke.  Ask your healthcare provider if you should use aspirin. 

• Eat a heart healthy diet.

The FDA Nutrition Facts Label found on packaged foods and beverages is your daily tool to help make informed food choices that contribute to healthy lifelong eating habits. Explore the interactive Nutrition Facts Label today and discover the wealth of information it contains to help you plan and eat a heart healthy diet.

• Do regular physical activity and maintain a healthy weight. 

Walking may be one easy way to start. Talk to your healthcare provider about how much activity is right for you. Obesity also increases the risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and pre-diabetes, which increases the risk of heart disease. 

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For more information, check out OWH’s Women and Heart Health resources at www.fda.gov/womenshearthealth. FDA has resources to help women of all ages learn how to use FDA-approved drugs and devices safely to prevent and treat heart disease. Work with your healthcare provider to create a plan for your heart health. No matter what routine you choose, make a list of your medicines and supplements, and bring it with you to all your appointments. 

You can also talk to a healthcare provider about whether you can participate in a clinical trial for a heart medication or procedure. A clinical trial is a research study that involves human volunteers. Visit Women in Clinical Trials to learn more at www.fda.gov/womeninclinicaltrials. 

 

Past KNOWH Blog Posts

• November 2021
• August 2021
• July 2021
• May 2021
• April 2021
• February 2021
• January 2021
• November 2020
• July 2020
• May 2020