Background

Heart disease in women 

Heart disease is the general term for conditions affecting the heart including coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and heart failure. It is one of the leading causes of death for women in Scotland. Additionally, heart disease is responsible for significant morbidity and reduced quality of life.

• Significant morbidity = having serious/chronic illness, impairment, or decline of health that affects an individual’s quality of life and life expectancy. 

 Statistics about heart disease in women:  

Despite the prevalence and impact of heart disease in women, it is often misconceived as primarily affecting men. As a result: 

• Women are less likely than men to be prescribed drugs that reduce the chance of having a second heart attack.  
• Women are less likely to receive diagnostic testing, such as a coronary angiography imaging, within 72 hours of hospital admission.  
• Compared to men, women are less likely to be invited to / participate in medical trials and research  

Why this module was created 

The above information points to the need for increased awareness, appropriate education, and access to quality healthcare for sex-specific differences in heart disease.  The Scottish Government acknowledges this in their Women’s Health Plan as does CHSS’ Women’s Health Action Plan.  

This eLearning module is a response to this critical need for awareness and education surrounding women’s heart health in Scotland. This resource aims to empower health professionals to deliver more tailored and effective care to women and the public to actively participate in caring for their cardiovascular health. To do so, the module provides evidence-based information about signs and symptoms, risk factors, preventative measures, and more that are specific to heart disease in women. 

i Additional Information