The threat of heart disease and stroke is growing substantially among women and girls, with 6 in 10 U.S. women projected to have at least one type of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to a new scientific statement published in Circulation, the peer-reviewed flagship journal of the American Heart Association. The rise is fueled by increases in health factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, with nearly 32% of girls ages 2-19 expected to have obesity by 2050, highlighting the impact on younger generations.
Findings from the report point to increases among women for all types of CVD, including heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and stroke. “Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women and remains their No. 1 health risk overall,” said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and executive director of the Katz Institute for Women’s Health. “While many people may think conditions like high blood pressure are only occurring in older women, we know this is not the case. The factors that contribute to heart disease and stroke begin early in life, even among young women and girls.” The impact is even greater among those experiencing adverse social determinants of health such as poverty, low literacy, rural residence, and other psychosocial stressors.
However, there is positive news: Rates of high cholesterol are expected to decline among nearly all groups of women, and improvements are expected in some health behaviors that impact CVD, including healthier eating, more physical activity, and less smoking. The most efficient and effective way to reduce the prevalence of CVD is through prevention, prioritizing optimal health through the four health behaviors—eat better, be more active, quit tobacco, get healthy sleep—and four health factors—manage weight, control cholesterol, manage blood sugar, manage blood pressure—that comprise the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8.
Health systems are encouraged to promote healthy choices in places where people learn, live, and receive care, such as schools, community centers, and clinics. Managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity early can make a difference, especially for women at higher risk. Coordinated care across specialties should be integrated before, during, and after pregnancy, and research should continue to explore how lifestyle changes and hormone therapy around menopause impact women’s heart health. Social challenges like access to healthy food, transportation, or safe housing must also be addressed.
To access the full report and find more advice for a healthy heart, visit Heart.org.
