Women’s Heart Health

Many still think heart disease is a man’s problem—but it’s the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. In 2021, it claimed about 310,000 women’s lives, equaling roughly 1 in every 5 female deaths. That's more than deaths from all cancers combined. 

How common is heart disease in women? 

• Around 44% of U.S. women—over 60 million—live with some form of cardiovascular disease. 
• Heart disease remains the top cause of death for women, yet only about 56% recognize it as their greatest health threat. 
• Every 33 seconds, someone in the U.S. dies from cardiovascular disease  

Understanding the risk factors for women 

While factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking affect everyone, certain risk factors are especially relevant to women: 

• Menopause — Estrogen decline after menopause may raise heart disease risk  
• Pregnancy complications — Conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes double later heart disease risk  
• Cancer treatments — Some chemotherapy drugs used for treating breast cancer can impact heart health 
• Stress and depression — More likely to affect women's heart disease risk compared to men  
• Diabetes — Poses a higher risk for women than for men  
• High blood pressure — Affects nearly half of women  
• Smoking — A well-known risk factor that remains relevant

If you recognize any of these risk factors in your own health history, don't wait—talk with a heart specialist at Banner Health. We’re here to help you understand your risk and create a plan that fits your life. 

Schedule a heart health checkup.  

Heart attack symptoms: How women may differ 

Women often experience heart attack symptoms differently than men. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, so it's important to recognize the signs. 

Signs more common in women may include: 

• Chest discomfort—feeling pressure, tightness or fullness  
• Pain in the neck, jaw, upper back, abdomen or one/both arms  
• Shortness of breath   
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness   
• Nausea, vomiting, indigestion-like discomfort   
• Lightheadedness or dizziness   
• Cold sweat  

If you suspect you're having a heart attack, call 911 immediately. Getting help fast can save your life. 

Learn more about heart attack symptoms and prevention.

Women’s Heart Center at Banner Health 

At the Women’s Heart Center at Banner Health, we offer care designed just for women. Our approach includes: 

• Preventive screenings personalized by age, health history and life events 
• Advanced diagnostics and tests tailored to women’s heart health 
• Treatment plans that reflect unique symptoms and risk factors 
• Education and support to understand your heart and take action early 

We are committed to improving heart health for women—from young adulthood, through pregnancy and menopause, and beyond. 

Explore our Women's Heart Center in Phoenix, Arizona. 

Why choose Banner Health for women’s heart care 

• Cardiologists focused on women’s heart care 
• State-of-the-art diagnostic tools 
• Customized care plans for your life and needs 
• Preventive support and recovery guidance 

Your heart health matters. Banner Health is here to help you stay informed, supported and empowered. 

Make an appointment today.