Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women, yet for decades, gender disparities in cardiovascular research and care have left many women undiagnosed and undertreated. Dr. Jennifer Mieres, a renowned cardiologist specializing in cardiac imaging, has been at the forefront of addressing these disparities. Her early research focused on gender differences in cardiovascular disease, and she played a pivotal role in the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Go Red for Women movement, which launched in 2004.
“Heart disease is still the leading killer of women in the United States, and Black women face an even greater burden,” Dr. Mieres emphasizes. The Go Red for Women initiative has been instrumental in increasing awareness, advancing scientific understanding, and advocating for better cardiovascular care for women.
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The Need for Gender-Specific Research in Cardiology
By the late 1990s and early 2000s, it became evident that more women were dying from heart disease compared to men. The AHA recognized that despite being the leading cause of death for women, heart disease was largely preventable—up to 80 percent of cases could be avoided with lifestyle changes and early intervention. However, the lack of awareness and research on gender-specific differences in heart disease left women at a disadvantage.
“For years, women were underrepresented in cardiovascular research, leading to gaps in knowledge about how heart disease presents in women versus men,” says Dr. Mieres.
The Go Red for Women movement was founded on three main pillars:
- Increasing Awareness – Educating women about their risk factors and symptoms.
- Advancing Scientific Research – Studying gender-specific differences in cardiovascular disease.
- Changing Clinical Guidelines – Ensuring healthcare professionals recognize and address these differences.
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Understanding the Disparities in Women’s Heart Health
The initiative shed light on key gender disparities in cardiovascular disease. Women often experience different symptoms than men, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
“While chest pain remains the most common symptom, women may also experience shortness of breath, back pain, jaw pain, or even extreme fatigue. These symptoms are often dismissed or misdiagnosed,” Dr. Mieres explains.
Additionally, research conducted through the Go Red for Women movement has highlighted how certain conditions uniquely impact women’s heart health.
“Pregnancy-related complications—such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and gestational diabetes—are powerful predictors of future heart disease,” she adds.
Black women, in particular, face a disproportionate burden, with nearly 60 percent of Black women over the age of 20 living with some form of cardiovascular disease.
“Black women have higher rates of hypertension, which we call ‘the silent killer,’ because it often goes unnoticed until serious damage has been done,” says Dr. Mieres.
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The Role of Menopause in Heart Health
Another critical factor impacting women’s cardiovascular risk is menopause. The decline in estrogen levels during menopause is associated with increased blood pressure, unfavorable changes in cholesterol levels, and a higher risk of metabolic disorders.
“Menopause is a biological turning point. It’s a time when women need to be extra vigilant about their heart health,” Dr. Mieres advises.
To mitigate these risks, she emphasizes the importance of proactive lifestyle changes, including maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
“Even small lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference,” she notes.
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The Connection Between Mental Health and Heart Disease
Recent research has underscored the impact of chronic stress, anxiety, and depression on heart health. Exposure to prolonged stress leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can contribute to hypertension and vascular damage.
“Chronic stress is a significant, yet often overlooked, risk factor for heart disease. Managing stress is just as important as monitoring blood pressure or cholesterol,” says Dr. Mieres.
Black women, who often face higher levels of chronic stress due to socio-economic factors, are at an increased risk.
“We now know that chronic stress and its physiological effects, including increased cortisol levels, can directly impact cardiovascular health,” she explains.
Dr. Mieres and the AHA emphasize the importance of mindfulness practices, exercise, and social support as key strategies for stress reduction.
“Even five minutes of meditation or laughter each day can be beneficial,” she suggests.
Empowering Women to Take Charge of Their Heart Health
Dr. Mieres advocates for a collaborative approach between women and their healthcare providers. Women should be proactive in monitoring their blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health.
“Keeping a log of blood pressure readings and discussing concerns with your doctor is one of the best things you can do,” she advises.
Home blood pressure monitoring is now more accessible, and regular check-ups with healthcare providers can help detect potential issues early.
“Healthcare is a partnership—women need to take an active role in their heart health by asking the right questions and staying informed,” says Dr. Mieres.
Additionally, adopting heart-healthy habits—such as following the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and prioritizing mental well-being—can significantly lower the risk of heart disease.
“Exercise doesn’t have to be extreme—walking for 30 minutes a day, dancing, or even gardening can make a difference,” she says.
The Ongoing Legacy of Go Red for Women
The Go Red for Women movement has been transformative in raising awareness, improving medical research, and changing clinical practices. Since its inception, there has been a significant decline in the number of women dying from heart disease, demonstrating the power of education and advocacy.
Dr. Mieres, along with other leaders in cardiovascular research, continues to push for advancements in women’s heart health. Her book, “Heart Smarter for Women: Six Weeks to a Healthier Heart”, provides a practical guide for women looking to take control of their cardiovascular well-being through simple, sustainable lifestyle changes.
“This book was inspired by our patients who wanted actionable steps to improve their heart health,” she shares.
Conclusion
Heart disease remains a critical health issue for women, but with knowledge and proactive measures, it is largely preventable. Dr. Jennifer Mieres’ work with Go Red for Women has played a vital role in changing how women and healthcare professionals approach heart health. By increasing awareness, prioritizing research, and fostering partnerships between patients and medical professionals, we can continue to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in women.
As Dr. Mieres says, “Your health is your most important asset. Take small, consistent steps toward a heart-healthy lifestyle—it can make all the difference in ensuring a long and vibrant life.”
