Do you believe that the silent predator, heart attack, is mainly a male disease? 

In a groundbreaking revelation, CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr Jon LaPook dismantles the prevailing misconception, urging women to be vigilant. 

As the leading cause of female mortality in the United States, heart disease claims over 300,000 lives annually. However, awareness of its signs and symptoms remains disconcertingly low.

Contrary to the widely held belief that heart disease predominantly affects men, Dr LaPook stresses it as the primary killer of women. National Wear Red Day, observed on February 2 to spotlight cardiovascular disease, serves as more than a symbolic gesture; it is a resounding call to draw attention to this critical health concern. 

On this awareness day, Dr LaPook urged women to understand that their vulnerability to heart disease is as profound as that of their male counterparts.

Highlighting the most prevalent symptoms of heart attacks in women, Dr LaPook focuses on commonly recognised indicators like chest pain and shortness of breath. Additionally, he underscores the significance of lesser-known signs such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and pain in the jaw, back, or other areas. These subtle cues play a crucial role in the early detection of cardiac arrest. 

Examining risk factors associated with heart disease, Dr LaPook identifies high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and inactivity as significant contributors. Access to healthcare emerges as a critical factor, and he passionately advocates against smoking, acknowledging its decline as pivotal in reducing heart disease rates.

Moving beyond symptom recognition and risk mitigation, Dr LaPook stresses the importance of early detection through regular monitoring of key health metrics like weight, blood pressure, and overall well-being. Waiting for symptoms to manifest is discouraged, with a call for women to adopt lifelong healthy habits.

Dr LaPook extends the conversation to heart health during pregnancy also, framing it as a significant “stress test” for the heart. He urges women to enter pregnancy in good overall health, emphasising the need for accessible healthcare.

Dr Jon LaPook leaves them with a compelling call to action: “It’s not something where you want to wait until you have symptoms and then say, ‘OK, now I’m going to really get into it.’