How Heart Kidney and Metabolic Health Issues Affect Women Differently

Many women may not fully recognize their vulnerability to heart disease, kidney issues, and metabolic disorders like diabetes, all of which elevate the risk for cardiovascular disease.Here are critical insights into cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) health informed by experts from the American Heart Association.Cardiovascular disease stands as the leading cause of mortality among women, impacting nearly 45% of those aged 20 and older, with 1 in 3 succumbing to it.Unique symptoms in women often diverge from those in men; while chest pain frequently indicates a heart attack, women may also suffer pain in the arms, jaw, or neck.Proactive measures are essential. Women with Type 2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease face an increased CVD risk of 8-9 years earlier than those without these conditions.The elements of CKM syndrome—high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, obesity, high blood sugar, and reduced kidney function—are interlinked.Pregnancy complications and menopause can further influence CKM health, with early menopause raising the risk for kidney disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.Additionally, socioeconomic factors impact women’s heart health, correlating with reduced physical activity, poor nutrition, and heightened conditions like obesity and diabetes.Women should be proactive in understanding their risk and advocate for comprehensive screenings assessing heart, kidney, and metabolic health...