UpDate - Vol. Some facts about heart disease, the nation's 'Number 1' killer Heart disease is the nation's leading cause of death. During February, the Employee Wellness Center will offer several programs focusing on heart wellness. Many women have the mistaken belief that heart disease affects men only.
More American women die each year from heart disease than from all forms of cancer combined.
Coronary heart disease may have different symptoms in women than in men. For women, fatigue and chest discomfort, rather than chest pain, may be signs of a problem. Cholesterol level is determined by testing a small sample of blood. Test results may be ready in minutes, or may require laboratory analysis, depending on the method used. Initially, dietary and exercise guidelines are advised.