Jeffrey Rich, MD, cardiologist, UPMC Passavant, says that for most of a woman's life she is at a lower risk of developing heart disease because she produces more estrogen than a man. However, by the age of 65, a woman's risk equals that of a man because of the diminished estrogen levels after menopause. HDL cholesterol clears out damaging LDL in the arteries, helping to keep them open. Reduce your consumption of saturated fat and hydrogenated oils. Do not smoke.
Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease.
Take medication for high blood pressure if your doctor prescribes it. High blood pressure occurs more often in women after menopause. Relaxation techniques and exercise may help keep stress at a manageable level. Although many women believe cancer to be their most series health threat, coronary heart disease is the single largest killer of women in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, twice as many American women die of heart disease and stroke as from all forms of cancer, including breast cancer.