Why is heart disease on the rise among young women? Doctors warn

**Why is heart disease on the rise among young women? Doctors warn**

Recently, the incidence of heart disease and even death from it among young women around the world has been increasing significantly. Studies show that by 2050, almost a third of women aged 20 to 44 may suffer from heart disease. Most worryingly, women under 55 are at a much higher risk of dying from a heart attack than men.

Experts say that the idea that heart disease is only a men's problem is completely wrong. However, this risk can be prevented by following simple rules.

One of the main reasons for the increase in the number of cases is the prevalence of obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes among young people. Although these problems affect everyone, they have a more negative impact on women's bodies. For example, women with diabetes are at a higher risk of heart disease than men, and smoking can also make a woman's heart work harder.

Also, blood pressure in young women is often not checked in a timely manner and is treated incorrectly. However, the risk of a heart attack in women can begin even with much lower blood pressure readings.

Doctors recommend that every woman monitor her indicators and check that the following indicators are within the norm:

* **Blood pressure:** less than 120/80 mm Hg;

* **"Bad" cholesterol (PZL):** less than 100 mg/dL;

* **Body mass index (TVI):** less than 25;

* **Blood glucose (A1C):** 5.6 percent or less.

If these numbers are not within the norm, it is necessary to change your lifestyle, that is, diet, quit smoking, limit alcohol and play sports.

**Hidden danger: causes that are unique to women**

There are also causes that are unique to women that cause heart disease. These include early menopause before the age of 40, polycystic ovary syndrome, gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, as well as autoimmune diseases such as rheumatism. These conditions are serious warning signs that heart problems will develop in the future.

Women in their 20s, 30s and 40s do not undergo regular medical examinations, most of them only go to the gynecologist. And doctors recommend that they undergo regular examinations by a therapist at this age. Because after menopause, the risk of heart disease in women increases sharply, and in the period before that, it is necessary to strengthen the heart.

In addition to routine blood tests, doctors recommend several other important tests:

* **Cardiac computed tomography (CAC):** Blockage of the heart arteries occurs very slowly and insidiously. This test helps to detect the hidden process early, before symptoms appear, and prevent a heart attack.

* **Lipoprotein(a) test:** A type of cholesterol that only needs to be tested once in a lifetime. This indicator can change only after menopause, so it is better for women to have it checked again.

* **C-reactive protein test:** Shows inflammation in the blood and helps to predict heart risk.