Why Women’s Heart Health Matters More Than You Think
Valentine’s Day is all about love—flowers, cards, and sweet gestures. But this year, there’s one relationship that deserves some extra attention: the relationship you have with your heart.
February is American Heart Month, and it’s a powerful reminder that caring for your heart isn’t just a seasonal message—it’s a year-round act of self-love, especially for women.
Here’s the part many people don’t realize: cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, responsible for 1 in 3 deaths each year. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease claims more women’s lives than all forms of cancer combined—yet less than half of women recognize it as their greatest health threat.
The Truth About Women and Heart Disease
If this surprises you, you’re not alone. Consider these important facts:
- Only 44% of women recognize heart disease as their top health risk
- Nearly 45% of women age 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease
- Fewer than 50% of women enter pregnancy with good heart health
- 10–20% of women experience health complications during pregnancy, and conditions like high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes significantly raise the risk of heart disease later in life
- Menopause does not cause heart disease, but the years surrounding it are a critical time when risk factors often accelerate—making preventive care more important than ever
The Good News: Most Heart Events Are Preventable
Here’s where Valentine’s Day gets hopeful. ❤️
Most heart attacks and strokes can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes. Loving your heart can look like:
- Moving your body regularly
- Eating smart with heart-healthy foods
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- Reducing stress and prioritizing sleep
- Having a trusted primary care provider who knows you, not just your chart
These small, intentional choices—made consistently—can have a powerful impact over time.
Know the Signs. Share the Love.
Heart attack and stroke symptoms in women can be subtle and are often overlooked. Chest pain isn’t always the first sign. Women may experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or lightheadedness
- Jaw, neck, or back pain
- Unusual fatigue
- Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking
The American Heart Association offers a simple, printable guide outlining the warning signs of heart attack and stroke. This Valentine’s Day, consider sharing it with someone you love—it could truly save a life.
Extra Support for Women Without Insurance: SAGE Plus at Aslan Health
At Aslan Health, we know that cost and lack of insurance often prevent women from getting the heart care they need—especially during critical life stages like pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause.
That’s why we offer SAGE Plus services for qualifying women without insurance.
SAGE Plus provides heart health screenings and lifestyle-focused support at no cost for women who meet income guidelines. These services are designed to help identify risk factors early, support healthy changes, and reduce the chance of heart disease before it becomes a crisis.
If you are uninsured and concerned about your heart health, this program can be a meaningful on-ramp back into care—without fear of large medical bills.
Our team is happy to talk with you privately to see if you may qualify and help you take the next step toward protecting your heart.
Heartfelt Care at Aslan Health
At Aslan Health, we believe caring for your heart is one of the most meaningful ways to care for your future. We walk alongside women at every stage of life—helping with prevention, early detection, chronic disease management, and lifestyle support in a welcoming, affordable setting.
This Valentine’s Day, give yourself (and those you love) a gift that lasts longer than chocolate.
Love your heart. Protect your health. And remember—you’re worth it. ❤️