Women’s Heart Health – Why It Deserves the Same Attention as Other Health Priorities 

When women’s health is discussed in the UAE, breast cancer is often the first concern that comes to mind. Awareness campaigns, early screenings, and community education have made enormous progress in encouraging women to prioritize regular check-ups. But there is another condition that silently affects women every day and often receives far less attention: heart disease. 

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women worldwide. Yet, compared to other health issues, it is not spoken about as openly. Many women in Dubai and across the UAE still believe heart disease is mainly a “man’s problem” or something that happens only later in life. The truth is that women of all ages are at risk, and their symptoms can be very different from men’s. 

Unlike the dramatic chest pain often seen in men, women may experience subtle warning signs such as persistent fatigue, nausea, dizziness, or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or upper back. Because these symptoms are less obvious, they are frequently misattributed to stress, indigestion, or anxiety. As a result, women often delay seeking medical help, which can lead to more severe outcomes. 

Risk factors also affect women differently. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, raise the risk of heart disease more significantly in women than in men. Hormonal changes after menopause further reduce natural protection and increase vulnerability. Add to this the stresses of modern life, and women’s cardiovascular health becomes an issue that can no longer be overlooked. 

The good news is that awareness and early detection can make a huge difference. Just as breast health campaigns have normalized the importance of regular mammograms, it is equally important for women to normalize regular heart screenings. Simple, non-invasive tests such as ECGs, echocardiography, and cholesterol checks can identify risks early and prevent emergencies. 

At International Modern Hospital (IMH) Dubai, preventive cardiology programs for women are designed with this in mind. The focus is not only on diagnosis and treatment but also on education, lifestyle management, and empowering women to take charge of their health at every stage of life. Whether it’s young women managing stress, mothers balancing family responsibilities, or women approaching menopause, heart care must be part of the conversation. 

Women in the UAE have already shown how collective awareness can transform health outcomes. Now is the time to extend that same level of attention and urgency to the heart. By making preventive cardiology a routine part of women’s health, we can save lives and build a healthier future.