Cardiologist Urges Women Over 40 to Undergo Four Key Heart Health Tests

Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of death among women globally, yet many women are unaware of the risks or ignore warning signs. Dr. Francesco Lo Monaco, a preventive cardiology expert and founder of The National Heart Clinic in London, recommends that all women aged 40 and above undergo four essential tests to detect early risk factors for heart disease. He emphasizes that early identification of these risks can prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiac conditions.

Dr. Lo Monaco advises women with specific risk factors, such as a family history of early heart disease, pregnancy complications, autoimmune diseases, or polycystic ovary syndrome, to consider starting these tests earlier. The four recommended tests include: annual blood pressure measurement to detect hypertension, which often has no symptoms but can cause artery damage; lipid profile tests to monitor cholesterol and triglycerides, with frequency depending on risk levels; fasting glucose and HbA1c tests every three years to identify diabetes or prediabetes, or more frequently if at risk; and assessment of body mass index (BMI) alongside waist circumference, with a waist measurement over 88 cm indicating increased cardiovascular risk.

Dr. Lo Monaco also highlights female-specific risk factors such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, early menopause, autoimmune diseases, breast cancer treatments, and chronic stress or mental health issues that can affect heart health. He stresses that women should not ignore persistent symptoms, as heart attacks in women may not present with classic chest pain. Symptoms like unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, jaw or neck discomfort, dizziness, cold sweats, or a general sense of illness require immediate medical attention, especially if sudden or severe.

These guidelines aim to improve awareness and early detection of heart disease risks in women, potentially reducing mortality through timely intervention and lifestyle adjustments.