For most women, breast cancer is the condition that’s top of mind. But consider this: Women are six times more likely to die from heart disease than breast cancer. Heart disease is also more deadly for women than it is for men.

“Heart disease is often thought of as a man’s disease, but it’s something that everyone should be concerned about,” says Vijay Kumar, MD, the chief of cardiology with Adventist GlenOaks Hospital.

Not an equal-opportunity killer
Heart disease tends to affect more men than women before age 65. “Estrogen has a protective effect on the heart, which is why more women develop heart disease after menopause,” Dr. Kumar says.

Years of untreated heart disease can eventually cause a heart attack. One reason why this is so deadly for women is because they are more likely to have symptoms that are hard to identify as serious. These atypical symptoms can delay them from going to the ER and receiving the treatment they need. Some signs include:

• Shortness of breath
• Neck, shoulder, abdominal and upper back pain
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Unexplained, profuse sweating

“Contact your doctor and get to the ER if you are experiencing these symptoms. It can save your life,” Dr. Kumar says.

Lower your risk
When it comes to risk factors for heart disease, some things we can’t control, such as family history, but there are other things we can. To protect yourself against heart disease, Dr. Kumar suggests women follow these tips:

1. Keep stress to a minimum. “According to one study, women with job strain are 40 percent more likely to develop heart disease,” Dr. Kumar says. “That’s because it is associated with cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, increased cholesterol and excess body weight.” Stress may be an inevitable part of life, but consider ways to reduce it, such as meditating or switching jobs.
2. Quit smoking. According to Dr. Kumar, this is the hardest habit to give up, but it’s the most worthwhile. “It’s the simplest way to reduce your heart disease risk,” he says.
3. Exercise almost every day. Aerobic activity for 30 to 60 minutes most days of the week can help you lose weight, decrease blood pressure and improve your mood. If this doesn’t fit into your busy schedule, consider breaking it up into 10-minute increments.
4. Shake your salt habit. A high sodium diet can elevate blood pressure – one of the leading risk factors for heart disease. Therefore, consume less than 2,400 milligrams of sodium per day by limiting salty foods, such as canned soups and vegetables, cured meats and processed foods.
5. See your doctor. Whether considering an aspirin regimen or starting an exercise program for the first time, it’s important to consult your physician. Regular physical exams are also key in finding risk factors earlier, such as high cholesterol, and getting them treated sooner.

For membership information about Oak Brook Park District Fitness Center, please visit http://www.obparks.org/fitness/membership.asp.