Back to blood pressure news index

More women die from heart disease

In the US, twice as many women will die of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases than from all forms of cancer combined, including breast cancer.

The American Heart Association has released a report to increase awareness of heart disease in women.

Risk factors

The key risk factors for heart disease are;

• Smoking
• High blood pressure and cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Body weight

However, research has shown that diabetes is a stronger risk factor for heart disease in women than in men.

Women with diabetes have a two to four times higher risk of dying from heart disease and stroke compared to women without diabetes.

The recommendation

Ane Cecilie the lead researcher of the study said, "Women with diabetes need to be aware of the associated risk of heart disease."

In addition to maintaining normal blood glucose levels Dr Cecelie added, "They also need to control other risk factors like hypertension and blood cholesterol levels. In addition it is important to quit smoking, have a healthy diet and practice regularly exercise."

Back to blood pressure news index