Combatting heart disease

Eight women die every day in New Zealand from heart disease.

This staggering death toll has prompted the Heart Foundation to highlight heart attacks, deeming them a “a critical issue affecting women’s health”. Foundation statistics show that heart disease is the single biggest cause of death among women in New Zealand, claiming the lives of almost eight women every day.

Contrary to popular belief, women may not always experience the classic symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain or discomfort. Instead, they may present symptoms including shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, backache, jaw pain, or extreme fatigue.

These differences in symptoms can sometimes lead to under-recognition and delayed treatment, putting women at greater risk of serious complications or death. An international study published in 2020 concludes that women under the age of 55 can experience different heart attack symptoms to men.

The study looked at 10 symptoms of a heart attack and the top symptoms experienced by both men and women were pain in the chest, jaw, neck, arm or back. Women presented with less chest pain and more sweating, dizziness and nausea than men.

Heart Foundation Medical Director Dr Gerry Devlin says too many women are dying from heart attacks as the warning signs aren’t recognised. “Seeking medical attention promptly is crucial as early intervention can make all the difference in saving lives. We encourage women to look after their hearts and get a heart check with their health practitioner as soon as they get any of these symptoms.”