Celebrating Women’s History Month
Prioritizing Heart Health for Women
March is Women’s History Month—a time to honor the incredible contributions of women throughout history. At Capital Cardiology Associates, we want to take this opportunity to recognize not only the women who have shaped medicine and science but also the importance of raising awareness about women’s heart health.
Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death among women? Despite this, it’s often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. Women’s heart health deserves more attention, and this month, we’re shining a light on the unique risks women face and the trailblazing women who have changed the field of cardiology.
Heart Disease Affects Women Differently
When you think of a heart attack, you probably picture someone clutching their chest in pain. But for women, heart attack symptoms can be quite different. Instead of the classic chest pain, women may feel nauseous, extremely tired, short of breath, or even experience pain in their back or jaw. Because these symptoms are more subtle, many women don’t recognize the warning signs, which can lead to delayed treatment and more serious complications.
Beyond that, certain life stages and conditions—like pregnancy, menopause, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—can increase a woman’s risk for heart disease. This makes early detection and preventive care even more crucial.
Women Who Changed Cardiology
Women have made remarkable strides in cardiology, breaking barriers and advancing the field in ways that have saved countless lives. Take Dr. Helen Taussig, for example. She’s known as the “mother of pediatric cardiology” for developing life-saving treatments for babies born with heart defects. Then there’s Dr. Bernadine Healy, the first female director of the National Institutes of Health, who launched the Women’s Health Initiative—a groundbreaking study that forever changed how we understand women’s heart health.
Thanks to these pioneers and the many women who continue to push for gender-specific research and treatment, we’ve come a long way. But there’s still work to do.
What Can You Do to Take Care of Your Heart?
Many women don’t realize they’re at risk for heart disease until it’s too late. But the good news is that there are simple steps you can take to protect your heart:
Know Your Numbers: Keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI.
Make Heart-Healthy Choices: Eat a balanced diet, get moving, and find ways to manage stress.
Understand Your Unique Risks: Talk to your doctor about your family history and personal health factors.
Listen to Your Body: If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it—seek medical attention.
Thank You to the Women of Capital Cardiology Associates
This Women’s History Month, we extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible women who keep Capital Cardiology Associates thriving.
To our doctors, researchers, pharmacists, nurses, medical assistants, and staff—your dedication, expertise, and compassion make a profound impact on our patients and our mission. Whether providing care, advancing science, or keeping operations smooth, you are essential to everything we do.
We celebrate you today and every day. Thank you for keeping our community’s hearts healthy and strong!
At Capital Cardiology Associates, we believe that every woman deserves to live a long, heart-healthy life. This Women’s History Month, let’s honor the past by taking action in the present—because when it comes to heart health, knowledge is power.
Join Us in Spreading Awareness
This March, we encourage you to start conversations about women’s heart health. Share this information with the women in your life, schedule a heart check-up, and support organizations dedicated to cardiovascular research and education.
We’re here to support you—this month and every day of the year.
