From Dailymail · · 2m
Dr Ellie: Why middle-aged women face heart attack risks
Middle-aged women face hidden heart attack risks, similar to Emma Chambers' death at 53.
In brief
Middle-aged women face hidden heart attack risks, similar to Emma Chambers' death at 53. Middle-aged women are at higher risk of heart attacks due to menopause, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Heart disease risks for women
For women in their 50s, heart disease is a major threat often ignored despite being twice as deadly as breast cancer in Britain.
Emma Chambers' death
Vicar of Dibley star Emma Chambers died of a heart attack at age 53 in 2018.
Misdiagnosis risks
Women are 50 per cent more likely to get the wrong initial diagnosis for a heart attack, leading to delayed treatment.
Menopause and heart disease
Heart disease becomes more common in women after menopause as oestrogen levels drop, increasing risk.
Meno-belly risks
Tummy fat around the middle, called meno-belly, is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Early menopause risks
Women who go through early menopause lose heart protection sooner, spending more years at higher risk.
Risk factors for women
Women have extra risk factors doctors rarely ask about: early periods, miscarriages, and pregnancy complications.
NHS health checks
Women aged 40 to 74 in England get free NHS health checks every five years to spot heart risks.
Lifestyle changes
Improved diet with nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocados can lower cholesterol and improve heart health.
Blood pressure focus
Women are less likely to have high blood pressure but it raises heart attack risk more than in men.
Blood pressure monitoring
Buy your own blood pressure monitor or get checked free at your GP or pharmacy.
Medications for heart health
Statins and other medications can help manage cholesterol and reduce heart attack risk.
Menopause and heart health
Menopause requires attention to heart health as oestrogen levels drop, increasing cardiovascular risk.
Weight-loss injections
Men are less likely to use weight-loss injections despite their benefits for heart health.
Prostate medication side effects
Medication for enlarged prostate can cause sexual problems, including difficulty with erections.
Heart health advice
Know your numbers: blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes are key modifiable risk factors for heart health.
What it means
Middle-aged women are at higher risk of heart attacks due to menopause, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.
