Cut your risk of HEART DISEASE!

Some things can increase your chances, including menopause and diabetes. Here's what you need to know – and what you can do

- TANYA PEAREY

Keeping your heart healthy is important at any age, but it becomes increasingly so as we get older. It's not just the wear and tear on our hearts and bodies - the development of other health issues can have an affect on our hearts too. And being a woman can play a part.

'It's so important for women to understand what can lead them to an increased risk of heart issues, as there's so much interplay with their hormones,' says NHS GP Dr Dave Nichols*. 'Historically, heart disease has been considered a disease that predominantly affects men, so increasing awareness for how it presents in women, and the risk factors, is crucial.'

Many of the risk factors for heart disease are the same for both genders. These include high blood pressure and cholesterol, obesity, smoking, lack of physical activity and diabetes. 'But there are female-specific risk factors too,' says Dr Nichols, 'such as hormonal changes and menopause, pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes, which increases a woman's risk.' But there's plenty you can do to help your heart health.

Get your heart pumping

'Exercise has profound benefits for our body,' says Dr Nichols, 'improving the strength of our muscles, joints and bones, lowering our risk of long-term health conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, and helping to improve our mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. Walking more is an easy way to increase your fitness, particularly if you introduce it into your everyday life. 'Use the stairs more and start to incorporate body weight exercises into your fitness routine,' he advises.