Heart disease and heart attack are considered one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Studies show that both men and women have a higher risk of heart disease, but men are more likely to have heart attacks than women.
According to media reports, Dr. Neelam Dahiya, assistant professor of the department, has warned that women suffering from obesity may be at higher risk of heart disease and heart attack. Women who are overweight should take special care of their heart health.
According to the study report, obesity is the biggest risk among 44 percent of women suffering from heart disease. According to three-year 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.
The study also found that obesity is a major risk factor in more than half of women suffering from heart disease. Only one percent of these women had a diet that could be considered good for heart health (fresh fruits and vegetables). The most worrying thing is that most women have very little knowledge about heart disease and its associated risk factors.
Doctors in the study said that smoking and excessive salt intake are also factors increasing heart diseases. 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.
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, increased stress among youth has also been found to be one of the major risk factors for heart disease in India.
The study results show that Indians consume more salt and sugar while they eat less vegetables and fruits. Carbohydrates, calories, sweets and trans fats are causing obesity. Additionally, prolonged sitting and lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain, which can directly increase heart disease. Efforts to lose weight and maintain good heart health are recommended from an early age.