heartfacts

Women appear to have their first heart attack 10 years older than men and the reason for this is attributed to the menopause.  Before menopause women seem to be protected from cardiovascular disease but the hormonal change resulting in decreased oestrogen levels during and post menopause which increases their risk of diseases such as atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, angina, myocardial infarction and strokes. This is particularly worrying as these diseases all lead to death if untreated.  It is thought that those women who are post menopause have twice the risk of heart disease compared to women who have yet to go through the menopause and women who have had their ovaries removed have a higher risk of heart disease versus those who still have their ovaries intact.

Menopausal women should exercise regularly,at least 4-5 times a week, as well as eating a diet low in saturated fat and high in fibre in order to reduce their risk of heart disease.  Weight loss if appropriate should also be undertaken. By reducing your risk factors there is a lower chance of getting heart disease.

Trackback URI | Comments RSS