Heart Disease Deaths Among Younger Women Might Be on the Rise

Heart Disease Deaths Among Younger Women Might Be on the Rise

After decades of steady decline, deaths from coronary heart disease in women under 54 may be increasing, according to findings published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
Using CDC and U.S. Census data, researchers found that from 2000 to 2002, the death rate due to CHD in women aged 35 to 54 increased by 1.5% annually. Among the youngest of these women (aged 35-44), the mortality rate had begun to rise in 1997 — averaging a 1.3% increase each year.

In addition, the decline in the CHD death rate among men under 54 appeared to slow — from 2000 to 2002, the rate decreased by only 0.5% annually.

The authors remind physicians to use prevailing guidelines to prevent CHD in patients with one or more risk factors. They conclude, "Complacency runs a high risk: mortality rates among younger adults may represent the leading edge of a brewing storm."

LINK(S):

Journal of the American College of Cardiology article (Free PDF)
Journal of the American College of Cardiology editorial (Subscription required)

Published in Physician's First Watch November 21, 2007