The cardiovascular system plays a vital role in delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Both men and women are susceptible to cardiovascular diseases, but there are certain risks specific to women that are often overlooked.

While heart disease is commonly associated with men, the reality is that it is the leading cause of death among women, surpassing all forms of cancer combined.

1. Hormonal Changes

One of the primary reasons women face unique risks to their cardiovascular health is due to hormonal changes. Estrogen has a protective effect on blood vessels, keeping them flexible and promoting healthy blood flow.

However, after menopause, when estrogen levels decrease significantly, women become more susceptible to heart disease.

2. Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are more prevalent in women.

These conditions can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease as they cause chronic inflammation that can damage blood vessels and increase the likelihood of plaque buildup.

Pregnancy-related complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes can have long-lasting effects on a woman’s cardiovascular health.

Women who have experienced these conditions are at a higher risk of developing hypertension and type 2 diabetes later in life, which are significant risk factors for heart disease.

4. Mental Health Disorders

Mental health disorders like depression and anxiety are more prevalent in women and can impact cardiovascular health.

Research has shown that these conditions are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, likely due to the physiological effects of stress on the body.

5. Oral Contraceptives

While oral contraceptives provide various benefits for women, such as pregnancy prevention and hormonal regulation, they can also pose risks to cardiovascular health.

Some birth control pills contain hormones that can raise blood pressure, increase the risk of blood clots, and negatively impact lipid profiles.

6. Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity are detrimental to cardiovascular health for both men and women. However, due to societal factors and gender roles, women often engage in less physical activity than their male counterparts.

This lack of exercise can contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, and increased risk of heart disease.

7. Smoking

Smoking is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and women who smoke face additional health risks.

Women who smoke are more likely than men to develop heart disease, and the combination of smoking and taking oral contraceptives significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events.

8. Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, excess abdominal fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels.

This syndrome increases the risk of developing heart disease, and research suggests that women may be more susceptible to its adverse effects.

9. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. This disorder is characterized by high levels of androgens, insulin resistance, and ovarian cysts.

PCOS is associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

10. Under-Representation in Research

Historically, medical research on cardiovascular health has predominantly focused on men. As a result, many gender-specific risk factors and symptoms have been overlooked.

This under-representation in research contributes to delayed diagnoses and suboptimal treatment for women, putting their cardiovascular health at risk.