Know Your Numbers: The Link Between Menopause and Heart Disease
According to data, 1.56 million women in the US are postmenopausal. There is little we can do about these numbers. Menopause is a natural process that, unfortunately, can’t be avoided. However, the troubling aspect of being post-menopausal is that it puts you at greater risk for certain diseases.
Women develop heart disease later than men: due to the role of hormones and menopause. The women at the highest risk are those who underwent surgical menopause before age 45. The earlier the menopause, the sooner the increased heart disease and stroke risk. Recognizing the link between heart disease and menopause is more important than ever. At La Follette, we want to give you the information and care you need to address this issue and live a happier, healthier life.
The Go Red Campaign
In 2020, The American Heart Association started its Go Red Campaign. This campaign brings awareness to the factors that put women at greater risk for heart diseases. According to the campaign, cardiovascular disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined. Yet, only 44% of women recognize heart disease as the greatest threat to their health.
Moreover, among 20+ year old women, nearly 45% are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, and less than 50% of women entering pregnancy in the United States have good heart health. In some cases, undiagnosed cardiovascular issues can be fatal. Statistically, 51.9% of high blood pressure deaths (known as the “silent killer”) are in women, and out of all women, 57.6% of Black females have hypertension — more than any other race or ethnicity.
As the data suggests, being aware of your heart health is essential to avoiding many of the heart issues that women face later in life.
Know Your Risk Factors for Heart Disease
There are several factors that you can’t control when it comes to heart disease. These factors include:
- Age
- Gender
- Heredity (family health history)
- Race
- Previous stroke or heart attack
However, some factors are within your control. Addressing these early on can help you avoid life-threatening cardiovascular issues.
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- High blood cholesterol
- Lack of regular activity
- Obesity or overweight
- Diabetes
Know Your Numbers
The following represent healthy numbers of adult women. Regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks are essential to ensuring that you remain healthy. By knowing your numbers, you can take steps toward minimizing your heart disease risk.
- Blood Pressure – 120 / 80 mm Hg
- Body Mass Index (BMI) – 25 kg / m2
- Fasting Blood Sugar – 90 mg / dL
Take Action, Avoid Heart Disease
At La Follette, we strive to provide our patients with the greatest care. Women are often at high risk of heart disease – an issue that can be prevented with proper medical attention. Our team is ready to work with you to minimize risks and help you live a long, happy life.
Some of the lifestyle changes you can make to prevent heart disease include: staying active, being mindful of your diet, minimizing alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking. All of these can be discussed in greater depth during a consultation here at our Greenbrae, California office.
How to Schedule
Whether you require gynecological care or lifestyle advice, at La Follette, we can provide you with the tools and guidance you need to live a happy life. Give us a call at (415) 461-1949 to get started and schedule your consultation.