Prioritizing Heart Health in Women: Increasing Awareness and Self-Advocacy

Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, can begin as early as childhood and is driven by both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. In today’s environment, the widespread availability of processed foods and the modernization of daily life, marked by chronic stress, inadequate sleep, and sedentary habits, further compound these risks. As such, heart disease prevention must start early, with an emphasis on balanced diets and consistent physical activity. That said, it is never too late to prioritize cardiovascular health. Routine check-ups and screenings play a critical role in identifying risk factors before they progress into more serious conditions. Women should be proactive about their health, voice concerns if something feels off – even if their symptoms do not fit the traditional mold of heart disease – and be their own best advocates.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. and can affect women at any age. Yet, only about half of U.S. women recognize that heart disease is their number one killer. Despite this, awareness remains low, and the nature of heart disease in women makes it more challenging to diagnose, especially in its early stages. While men often present with the classic symptom of chest pain or pressure, women are more likely to experience subtler, less specific symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, or generalized weakness. These subtler symptoms are often overlooked or misattributed, increasing the risk of delayed diagnosis and treatment. This highlights the importance of education, awareness, and self-advocacy in improving cardiovascular outcomes for women.

Even when major coronary arteries appear normal on standard diagnostic testing, women may continue to experience persistent chest discomfort due to dysfunction in the smaller, microscopic blood vessels, a condition often referred to as microvascular disease. This can lead to frustration for both patients and providers if not recognized. Additionally, stress plays a significant and often under-appreciated role in cardiovascular health. Stress-induced cardiomyopathy, also known as “broken heart syndrome,” disproportionately affects women, particularly those over the age of 50. This condition underscores the powerful connection between emotional well-being and heart health, reinforcing the need for a more comprehensive and holistic approach to prevention and care.

Preventive strategies remain the cornerstone of heart health. Regular physical activity, effective stress management techniques such as mindfulness or meditation, adequate sleep, and nutritious dietary choices are essential in reducing cardiovascular risk. These interventions support both heart health and overall well-being.

Women’s Health Month serves as a powerful reminder to reinforce the importance of awareness, prevention, and advocacy. By equipping women with knowledge and encouraging proactive engagement in their health, we can improve outcomes, empower them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives, and ensure they seek timely care, even when symptoms may be vague.

My commitment to this mission is deeply personal and shapes my work with Physician Affiliate Group of New York (PAGNY). Having immigrated to New York as a teenager from a country affected by conflict, I developed an early awareness of the disparities that limit access to quality healthcare. Serving within New York City’s public hospital system allows me to care for a diverse and dynamic patient population, where cultural competence and compassion are essential. At PAGNY, my work is guided by a strong sense of purpose to reduce barriers to care, advocate for vulnerable populations, and contribute to a high-quality system that prioritizes patient-centered care, equity, and excellence. Working alongside highly skilled and dedicated colleagues across disciplines, I am continually inspired to help improve both the quality of care and the patient experience in one of our greatest cities.

Eleonora Gashi, DO., MPhil., FACC

Vice-Chair, Department of Medicine

Director, Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

Attending Physician, Division of Cardiology

Associate Professor of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine