Heart disease and heart attack are considered one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Studies show that although the risk of heart disease is higher in both men and women, more cases of heart attack have been seen in men as compared to women. In a recent study related to this, doctors of the Cardiology Department of PGI, Chandigarh have made a big claim.
According to media reports, Dr. Neelam Dahiya, Assistant Professor of the department, has cautioned that women suffering from obesity may have a higher risk of heart disease and heart attack. Women whose weight is more than normal should take special care regarding heart health.
According to the study report, obesity is the major risk factor in 44 percent of women suffering from heart disease. According to three years of data, women suffering from heart disease have more severe symptoms than men. Apart from this, 13-15 percent of women suffering from heart disease were below 50 years of age.
Increased risk of heart disease in women
Professor Neelam says the problem of being overweight has already been considered a major factor in heart diseases. This study also found obesity to be a major risk factor in more than half of the women suffering from heart disease. Only one percent of these women have a diet that can be considered good for heart health (enough fruits and vegetables).
The most worrying thing is that most women have low awareness about heart disease and its related risk factors.
Smoking and excess salt are increasing the risk
Doctors in the study said that smoking and excessive salt intake are also known factors that increase heart disease. However, only 47 percent of women were advised to reduce salt intake and less than 30 percent were advised to quit smoking and eat a healthy diet.
Health experts said these figures highlight the urgent need to create awareness about the risks of heart disease in women and take preventive measures to tackle its growing threat. If it is not taken care of in time, it can become a problem that poses a major health risk.
Risk is also being seen in young women
According to study reports, 10 percent of women suffering from heart disease are below 40 years of age. This is an even more worrying situation. Apart from obesity, increasing stress among youth has also been found to be one of the major risk factors for heart disease in India. Busy lifestyles and increasing mutual competition have also increased the problem of stress due to which even young people are struggling with heart health problems.
The study's conclusion?
The findings of the study show that Indian people consume more salt and sugar while in comparison they consume less vegetables and fruits. Obesity is increasing due to carbs, calories, sweet things, and trans fat. Apart from this, sitting for a long time and lack of physical activity can also lead to weight gain, which can directly increase heart disease. All people have been advised to make efforts to lose weight and maintain good heart health from an early age.
(PC: ISTOCK)
