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Only 56% of Women Acknowledge Heart Disease Threat

2/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A CDC report finds that only 56% of women recognize heart disease as their primary health threat.
Heart disease accounted for one in five female deaths in the United States in 2023.
Dr. C. Noel Bairey-Merz notes that heart disease is often mischaracterized as a male issue.
Because women are 30% less likely to report chest pain and may wait longer for medical help, personalized evaluations are needed.

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Story summary

A CDC report finds that only 56% of women recognize heart disease as their primary health threat.
Heart disease accounted for one in five female deaths in the United States in 2023.
Dr. C. Noel Bairey-Merz notes that heart disease is often mischaracterized as a male issue.
Because women are 30% less likely to report chest pain and may wait longer for medical help, personalized evaluations are needed.