Not all factors that influence heart health are outside of your control. In fact, there are many ways to support heart health through things like managing blood pressure, staying active, reducing stress, and working with your healthcare team.

Understanding these factors is one of the most powerful steps women can take to protect their heart health.

Risk factors are conditions or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing heart disease.

Some, like age or family history, can’t be changed.

But many others can.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease.

It often has no symptoms, which is why it’s called a “silent” condition.

• Check your blood pressure regularly
• Reduce sodium intake
• Follow your treatment plan if diagnosed and continue working with your healthcare team to find the best ways to manage it

Regular movement supports:

• Heart strength
• Circulation
• Blood pressure control

• Walking 20–30 minutes a day
• Stretching or light activity breaks
• Finding activities you enjoy

What you eat directly impacts your heart health.

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins

• Processed foods
• Excess sodium
• Added sugars

Chronic stress can:

• Raise blood pressure
• Affect sleep
• Lead to unhealthy coping habits

• Mindfulness or breathing exercises
• Talking to someone you trust
• Seeking professional support

Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease.

Excessive alcohol can:

• Raise blood pressure
• Affect heart rhythm

• Seek support to quit smoking
• Moderate alcohol intake

Conditions like high cholesterol and diabetes significantly increase risk.

• Getting regular screenings
• Following treatment plans
• Asking questions about your numbers

 Why This Matters for Women

Heart disease is often misdiagnosed in women.

Symptoms may be:

• Less obvious
• Misinterpreted
• Dismissed

That’s why prevention and advocacy are so important.

 How to Take Control of Your Heart Health

Start with these steps:

1. Know your numbers (BP, cholesterol, blood sugar)
2. Schedule regular checkups
3. Speak up if something feels off
4. Build sustainable habits over time

You don’t have to do everything at once.

The Bottom Line

You can’t control everything, but you can control more than you think. The best steps are the ones you will take. Put your energy into the changes that work for you.

Those actions can make a meaningful difference in your long-term heart health.

Take the Next Step