Understanding Women’s Heart Disease Risks and Taking Control of your Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States and can affect women at any age. Knowing the signs, symptoms and risk factors of heart disease can help you take steps to protect your health and seek proper treatment if you need it. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and approximately 44.3% of women in the United States have it or are taking blood pressure medications. Other risk factors include high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, being overweight, diet, stress or depression, not getting enough exercise, and alcohol consumption.[2] 

Don’t forget! Higi Health Stations offer free and convenient ways for you to track many of these risk factors. Stop by your nearest station to check your blood pressure, weight, BMI and even learn your risk for type 2 diabetes.