The Heart Foundation of Jamaica - Heart Disease Information for Women

	ELEVATED TOTAL CHOLESTEROL Elevated total cholesterol, low HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels, and high triglycerides are telltale signs of heart disease. The ratio of the level of a woman’s HDL cholesterol to the level of her LDL (“bad”) cholesterol are extremely important in evaluating a woman’s risk of heart disease. A high HDL level lowers the risk for heart disease and lower levels of HDL appear to be a stronger heart disease indicator for women than men. The other important factor is the level of triglycerides. High triglycerides seem to play a greater role in increasing the risk of heart disease for women than men. HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE High blood pressure increases the likelihood of stroke. This is of special interest to Caribbean women, who are prone to higher blood pressure, and are at higher risk of heart disease. EXCESS WEIGHT AND BODY FAT Excess weight and body fat, especially around the middle and waist are dangerous. Obesity increases the strain on your heart and raises blood cholesterol and blood pressure. A waist line surpassing 35’ in women and 40’ in men are considered at risk. NB Some risk factors for heart disease are preventable and good habits such as exercise, maintaining a proper diet and monitoring one’s health need to start before the problem arises. Getting tested for the risk factors of heart disease should be a routine part of your annual medical checks, with any possible concerns followed up and monitored closely.

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