Senator Stavisky Reminds Women That February is Heart Health Month

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

February 5, 2016

Contact: Tess McRae – Senator Stavisky’s office (718) 445-0004

             Flushing, NY— February is National Women’s Heart Health Month and Senator Toby Ann Stavisky (D-Flushing) is calling on women to become informed and understand the common misconceptions associated with heart disease in women.

            “Heart disease poses a serious threat against many people, but especially women,” State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said. “Since the 1980s, heart disease has killed more women every year than it has men. In fact, it is the number one cause of death in women and accounts for more deaths in women than all types of cancer combined. We must become aware of the signs and do whatever we can to combat and reduce the risk of heart disease.”

            Though it is a serious matter for both men and women, heart disease shows itself in different ways in female bodies. In fact, only one in five women are aware that heart disease is the greatest threat to their health.

            Signs you may be developing heart disease:

• Uncomfortable pressure, fullness or pain in the center of your chest for a substantial amount of time
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back neck, jaw and stomach
• Shortness of breath with or without discomfort
• Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness

            In the United States, 90 percent of all women have at least one risk factor for developing heart disease.

To help decrease your risk of developing heart disease, you should take the following precautions:

• Avoid smoking
• Know your family history
• Exercise, eat healthy and maintain a healthy blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and weight

For more information, visit www.goredforwomen.org

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