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Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and Malaysia is no exception. The prevalence of cardiovascular conditions continues to rise across the country, fuelled by poor lifestyle habits, increasing stress levels, and an ageing population. In both men and women, heart disease can progress silently, making early detection and proactive prevention strategies essential.
Despite growing awareness, many Malaysians continue to underestimate the risks associated with heart disease. Women, in particular, are often less likely to recognise their susceptibility. Gleneagles Hospitals is dedicated to raising awareness around these gender-specific differences and supporting Malaysians in making informed decisions about their heart health.
Recognising the Distinct Symptoms in Women and Men
Symptoms in Women
Women may experience heart disease differently from men, often presenting with less typical or subtle symptoms. Rather than the well-known chest pain, they may report persistent fatigue, nausea, dizziness, or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.
Silent heart attacks—which occur with minimal or no obvious signs—are more prevalent in women, making diagnosis particularly challenging. Furthermore, hormonal shifts, particularly during and after menopause, significantly heighten cardiovascular risks, often leading to increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Symptoms in Men
Men typically exhibit more recognisable symptoms during a heart attack, such as intense chest pain or a sensation of pressure—frequently described as a “heavy weight” on the chest.
Cardiovascular issues in men often arise earlier in life due to lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and genetic predispositions. While they are less likely to experience silent heart attacks, men are at increased risk of sudden cardiac events if underlying conditions remain unmanaged.
Gender-Specific Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Understanding how risk factors affect each gender differently is essential for effective prevention.
Risk Factors More Common in Women
- Menopausal Hormonal Changes: The decline in oestrogen after menopause contributes to arterial stiffness and higher cholesterol levels, increasing heart disease risk.
- Pregnancy-Related Conditions: Health issues during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, are associated with future cardiovascular disease.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Women are more likely to suffer from autoimmune diseases, which promote chronic inflammation—a known contributor to cardiovascular problems.
Risk Factors More Common in Men
- Earlier Onset of Hypertension and High Cholesterol: Men often develop high blood pressure and cholesterol levels at a younger age, accelerating heart disease progression.
- Sedentary and High-Stress Lifestyles: A lack of physical activity, combined with demanding jobs, increases cardiovascular strain.
- Stronger Genetic Influence: A family history of heart attacks is often more pronounced in men, contributing to earlier and more severe cardiac episodes.
The Importance of Awareness and Early Detection
Raising public awareness around the gender-based variations in heart disease is key to reducing mortality rates and improving health outcomes. Women may delay seeking medical attention due to misunderstood symptoms, while men often disregard early signs due to a false perception of invulnerability.
Regular medical screenings and timely education help individuals identify potential risks early. With proper intervention, individuals can adopt lifestyle changes that significantly lower their chances of developing cardiovascular disease.
Practical Steps to Improve Heart Health
Managing heart health is achievable through informed lifestyle choices. Regardless of gender, these steps are vital:
- Physical Activity: Engage in consistent physical activity such as walking, swimming, or yoga to promote cardiovascular function.
- Healthy Diet: Focus on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while minimising salt, sugar, and processed foods.
- Stress Management: Incorporate relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and sufficient sleep into daily routines to mitigate stress.
- Routine Screenings: Undergo regular health assessments to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heart Disease in Men and Women
Why is heart disease in women often overlooked or misdiagnosed?
Symptoms in women are often vague or mistaken for less serious conditions such as anxiety or indigestion. Consulting a cardiologist for a comprehensive assessment can help prevent misdiagnosis.
Do lifestyle habits affect men and women differently?
Yes. Men often experience early-onset risks linked to lifestyle and genetics, while women’s risks increase significantly after menopause due to hormonal changes.
Are Malaysians at greater risk compared to the global average?
Yes. Malaysia faces high rates of obesity and diabetes, both of which are major contributors to heart disease. This reinforces the importance of preventive care across all age groups.
Can younger women suffer from heart conditions?
Although less common, young women can experience heart-related events due to factors such as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or complications during pregnancy.
What makes Gleneagles Hospitals a trusted choice for cardiac care?
Gleneagles Hospitals combines advanced diagnostic technology with personalised medical care. Our cardiologists are experienced in identifying and managing gender-specific symptoms and risk factors, ensuring holistic and effective treatment for all patients.
Schedule an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Heart disease remains a serious health concern in Malaysia, yet many people continue to overlook early signs. Symptoms like chest discomfort, fatigue, or unexplained pain in the upper body should never be ignored, as they may signal underlying cardiac issues.
Gleneagles Hospitals offers comprehensive cardiac screenings, expert consultations, and personalised care plans tailored to individual needs. Whether you are managing an existing condition or aiming to assess your cardiovascular risk, our team is committed to supporting your journey towards better heart health.
Take control of your health today. Book an appointment at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital or access our services through the MyHealth360 mobile application, available on Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Let us help you protect your heart—for yourself and your loved ones.
