A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association, published in Circulation, projects that by 2050, 6 in 10 U.S. women will have at least one type of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and stroke. The rise is fueled by increasing rates of high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, with nearly 32% of girls aged 2-19 expected to have obesity by 2050.
“Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women and remains their No. 1 health risk overall,” said Dr. Stacey E. Rosen, volunteer president of the American Heart Association. “We know the factors that contribute to heart disease and stroke begin early in life, even among young women and girls.” The impact is greater among those experiencing adverse social determinants of health such as poverty, low literacy, and rural residence.
However, the report notes positive trends: rates of high cholesterol are expected to decline among nearly all groups of women, and improvements are anticipated in health behaviors like healthier eating, more physical activity, and less smoking. The most effective way to reduce CVD prevalence is through prevention, focusing on the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8, which includes four health behaviors (eat better, be more active, quit tobacco, get healthy sleep) and four health factors (manage weight, control cholesterol, manage blood sugar, manage blood pressure).
Health systems are encouraged to promote healthy choices in schools, community centers, and clinics, and to use digital tools to reinforce positive changes. Early management of chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity is crucial, especially for women at higher risk. Coordinated care across specialties should be integrated before, during, and after pregnancy, and research should continue on how lifestyle changes and hormone therapy around menopause affect heart health.
Social and demographic factors must also be addressed. “Health systems should consider how social challenges – like access to healthy food, transportation, or safe housing – combine with medical risks,” the statement advises. For the full report and more advice, visit Heart.org.
