Our most recent webinar with the Heart and Stroke Foundation focused on women’s heart and brain health, and specifically on the increased challenges women face in receiving education and treatment around their health.

“What we’re seeing is a gap between women’s heart and brain health – in education, in how they are treated, and in seeking treatment,” said Donna Bedell, representative of the Heart and Stroke Foundation. “Women are not able to access equitable healthcare. The system was not designed with them in mind… yet, women are the heart of our community.”

The full webinar can be watched online. In the webinar, it’s revealed that every 20 minutes a woman in Canada dies of a heart attack. In fact, women are five times more likely to die of heart disease than they are of breast cancer, and it is the leading cause of premature death for women both in Canada and world wide.

“It’s important to be aware of this so that women can start advocating for themselves,” Donna said. She went on to explain that women who survive a heart attack or coronary event are less likely to be referred to a cardiologist or to go for cardiac rehabilitation. This could be because women are used to being the carers, not the ones being cared for, and so even in a life-or death situation, they tend to put others first.

“Speak to your doctor and don’t be afraid to take up time in your doctor’s office in order to have those conversations, even if they’re uncomfortable. For the women on this call, the message I have for you is don’t be afraid to put yourself first,” Donna said. “If you’re not putting yourself first and seeing your doctor and having these conversations, then you may not be able to take care of those who depend on you. Putting your health first is not a selfish act.”

The signs and symptoms of a heart attack may also be different in women. Women may experience all of the normal symptoms, or none of them.

“What we know now is that women can experience a heart attack without chest pressure. For women it can also be pressure in the upper back or upper abdomen, neck or shoulder pain, dizziness, light headed fainting, extreme fatigue,” Donna said. These signs are serious, particularly if coupled with sweating, shortness of breath, or nausea. Chest or upper abdomen pressure may be chronic or acute. If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, they should call 911 immediately.

To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and what you can do to decrees your risk of heart disease, watch the full webinar.