Heart Disease Doesn't Discriminat

Posted by Kathy Quan Feb 21, 2007

Did you know that more women die from heart disease each year than from breast cancer? In fact, more women in the U.S. die from heart disease than men. Women past the age of menopause are at even greater risk. These facts are not well known to physicians which increases the risks for women.

The World Health Organiztion (WHO) estimates that more than 16 million people worlwide die from cardiovascular disease each year. Heart disease knows no borders. It kills the old and the young (yes even teenagers have been found to have major artery blockages due to fat). Socio-economic factors do influence risk factors, but wealth does not protect anyone from heart disease.

WHO also estimates that 15 million people will suffer strokes each year. Five million of them will be left permanently disabled.

Smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, poor nutrition, diabetes and high cholesterol are all risk factors for heart disease.Lifestyle changes at any age have been shown to reduce risks and improve outcomes.