Tackling women's heart health gaps through education and digital therapeutics

My friend's mother-in-law did absolutely everything she could to take care of her health. She ate healthy, was active, and went to the doctor for preventive visits. Like many women, she tended to power through her day and take care of others instead of herself. But one day in December, she woke up feeling sick and sensing deeply that something was not right. She had her dear husband take her to urgent care, where her symptoms of nausea, neck pain and chills were dismissed for nothing that an antibiotic and some rest at home couldn't treat. That same day, this vibrant woman, who was otherwise the paragon of health, suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. 

How did this happen? Was the doctor unaware that nausea, chills, and neck pain are some of the telltale heart attack symptoms for women? Is this why no other tests were done?

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It is disheartening to witness the recurrent narrative of women's symptoms being disregarded and overlooked by our healthcare system. Women are dying from heart attacks at a rate almost double that of men. Even when women correctly identify their symptoms and seek medical attention, they often face longer wait times, reduced likelihood of hospital admission, and suboptimal treatment compared to their male counterparts.

One critical area where gender disparities in heart health persist is heart attack. Research has consistently shown that women have unique risk factors and experiences when it comes to heart attacks. For example, certain heart attack risk factors, such as shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain, have a greater impact on women. Additionally, women tend to experience more severe heart attacks and have a higher likelihood of long-term disability. By raising awareness about these gender-specific risk factors and advocating for tailored prevention strategies, we can empower women to take charge of their cardiovascular health.

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Menopause poses another significant challenge for women's heart health. During this natural transition, women face up to almost 3 times a higher risk of cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks, than premenopausal women of the same age. Education about these risks, along with regular screenings and early interventions, can help mitigate the impact of menopause on women's heart health.

To bridge the gender gap in heart health, we need a multifaceted approach. First and foremost, education is crucial. Women must be aware of their unique symptoms and risk factors for heart disease, including heart attack and menopause-related concerns. Equally important is the need to educate healthcare professionals about the distinct manifestations of heart disease in women, ensuring they respond promptly and empathetically to their female patients. 

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Employers also have a responsibility to equip women with resources and support to manage heart health, including menopause-related concerns. Recent reports show that heart disease in younger women is on the rise, which impacts their work participation and, subsequently, employer's earnings. Similarly, menopause-related concerns that are often connected to heart health have contributed to nearly 11% of women missing work in the last 12 months, totaling to an annual cost of $1.8 billion.

Furthermore, technology plays a pivotal role in narrowing these gaps in care. Wearable devices, remote monitoring, and telehealth services can be lifesavers – helping drive early detection, real-time data, and facilitating timely interventions. By leveraging these advancements, we can empower women to monitor their cardiovascular health proactively and seek appropriate care when needed.

We cannot afford to ignore the gender disparities in heart health any longer. By raising awareness, advocating for gender-sensitive care, and harnessing the power of technology, we can provide women with the support and resources they need to prevent and manage heart disease effectively. Let us unite in our commitment to equality in heart care, sparing families the anguish of preventable tragedies and ensuring that women receive the healthcare they deserve.