Heart Disease: The Silent Threat to Women’s Health

At a recent Heart Health Fair at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, Dr. Thomas Amidon delivered a startling truth: heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women, surpassing all forms of cancer combined. Despite advancements in medical research and treatment, the misconception that heart disease is a “man’s disease” persists, often leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment for women.

A Critical Gender Gap in Awareness and Treatment

Dr. Amidon, who has a personal interest in women’s health—being surrounded by his wife, three daughters, three mares, and two female dogs—emphasized that the medical community has historically focused on men when studying cardiovascular disease.

“As recently as 2006, 51% of women believed cancer was their biggest health threat, while only 13% identified heart disease as a major risk,” he explained. “Yet, the reality is far different. Cardiovascular disease claims significantly more women’s lives than cancer.”

According to 2025 data from the American Heart Association, the disparity in awareness, diagnosis, and treatment between men and women remains a serious issue. Women are less likely to receive life-saving medications and timely interventions after a heart attack. In fact:

• Women are 20% more likely than men to die from heart disease.
• Within a year of a heart attack, 36% of women will die, compared to 20% of men.
• Women are twice as likely to be disabled following a heart attack.
• Women are more likely than men to suffer a second heart attack.

Unique Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

One of the most dangerous aspects of heart disease in women is the difference in heart attack symptoms compared to men. While chest pain or pressure is a common symptom for both genders, women often experience subtler, less recognized signs, such as:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Unexplained fatigue or dizziness
• Palpitations (irregular heartbeat)
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweats or lightheadedness
• Pain in the jaw, neck, or upper back

Dr. Amidon shared the case of a recent female patient who dismissed her nausea and palpitations as minor discomforts. She waited nine hours before seeking medical help. Unfortunately, by the time her artery was cleared, the damage to her heart muscle was irreversible—a stark reminder of the importance of early detection and treatment.

The Science Behind Heart Attacks

Dr. Amidon explained that the heart is a muscle that requires its own blood supply, which is delivered through the coronary arteries. Over time, these arteries can become narrowed by cholesterol-rich plaque deposits. When these plaques rupture, blood clots form, which can completely block an artery—triggering a heart attack.

As an interventional cardiologist, Dr. Amidon specializes in minimally invasive procedures to restore blood flow by inserting a catheter through the arteries to remove obstructions. However, timing is critical—treatment is most effective within the first four to six hours after symptoms begin.

What Women Can Do to Protect Their Heart

While some risk factors, such as age, family history, and ethnicity, cannot be changed, many others are entirely preventable. Dr. Amidon urged women to take control of their heart health by:

• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Quitting smoking
• Exercising regularly (even small changes like taking the stairs or walking for 20 minutes daily make a big difference)
• Maintaining a healthy weight through gradual, sustainable changes
• Knowing their symptoms and seeking immediate help if something feels “off”

Spreading Awareness and Saving Lives

Dr. Amidon encouraged attendees to educate themselves and the women in their lives about heart disease. He also recommended resources like the American Heart Association’s website and his book, The Sublime Engine: A Biography of the Human Heart, co-authored with his brother, Stephen Amidon.

In 2025, heart disease remains the number one health threat to women—but with awareness, prevention, and early intervention, thousands of lives can be saved.

For more information on women and heart disease, visit www.heart.org or check out the latest research on Life Extension’s website.