Women can suffer from different cardiovascular conditions throughout their lifetimes, making it vital for the millions of American women at risk for heart disease to recognize that cardiovascular problems are their greatest health threat. Nearly 45 percent of women age 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, and occurrence of heart failure increases with age.
According to Katherine Shreyder, MD, the newest cardiologist at St. Clair Health and first female physician to practice with St. Clair Medical Group Cardiology, “Researchers have found many sex-related differences in the cardiovascular system and unique risk factors that may lead to worse outcomes for women.”
Cardiovascular disease complicates up to four percent of pregnancies and accounts for more than one third of maternal deaths.
High blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, and diabetes during pregnancy can increase a woman’s risk for developing cardiovascular disease later in life.
The approach of menopause marks a point in mid-life when a woman’s cardiovascular risk factors can accelerate.
“Most heart and stroke events can be prevented through education and lifestyle changes, so I’m committed to raising awareness of cardiovascular disease and addressing the gender gap in care to improve outcomes for women,” explains Dr. Shreyder. “In fact, I’m hoping to introduce a new
women’s heart health program at St. Clair Health this year, in partnership with my physician colleagues in obstetrics and gynecology and primary care.”
Cardiovascular disease kills more women in the U.S. than all forms of cancer combined every year. We can change this outlook if women learn more about heart disease and begin to take the necessary steps to reduce their risk.
Dr. Katherine Shreyder is currently accepting new patients at multiple St. Clair Medical Group Cardiology locations. To request an appointment, please call 412.942.7900 or visit physicians.stclair.org/scmg-cardiology/ [1].
