Women oblivious to heart disease risk
A staggering 78% of Australian women are unaware that heart disease is their number 1 killer. The high number of Australian women who are unaware of their heart disease risk is of great concern, says the Heart Foundation as it launches its Go Red for Women campaign.
In a recent survey conducted by the nation’s leading heart health charity, 42% of women mistakenly believed that breast cancer was the leading cause of death amongst Australian women. In reality, results reveal that heart disease kills four times as many women as breast cancer.
This year Heart Week will kick start the six-week Go Red for Women campaign (3 May – 12 June), which unites Australian women in the fight against heart disease - raising awareness of their risk and helping them make healthier choices.
“There are many myths about heart disease, such as the perception that it is an ’old man’s disease’. This is not the case – heart disease tragically claims the lives of 30 Australian women every day,” said Heart Foundation CEO – NSW Tony Thirlwell.
Whilst 95% of women know the link between lifestyle and heart disease, 65% of women surveyed did not mention blood pressure, cholesterol or diabetes as a risk factor.
“Often there are no symptoms of heart disease which is why we are encouraging women to talk to their health professional about assessing their heart disease risk. The good news is that heart disease can be largely prevented through simple lifestyle changes,” Thirlwell added.
The Heart Foundation is inviting all Australians to help raise awareness and funds by holding their own Go Red for Women fundraising event or making a donation. To celebrate national Go Red for Women Day on Friday 12 June, a Love Your Heart lunch is being held at the Hilton Sydney including a fashion parade by Australian designers George Gross and Harry Who. Funds raised will go towards education and research into women and heart health.
