Experts stress comprehensive lifestyle changes to curb cardiovascular disease

Medical professionals emphasize that preventing heart attacks and strokes requires more than regular exercise. Daily habits such as prolonged sedentary periods, chronic sleep deprivation, high stress levels, and diets rich in processed meats and trans fats can erode vascular health and offset the benefits of workouts. Experts advise a holistic assessment of routines, focusing on stress management, adequate sleep, and anti‑inflammatory dietary choices to protect arterial integrity.

For women, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death, yet symptoms often differ from the classic male presentation. Women may experience fatigue, epigastric discomfort, nausea, or shortness of breath, leading to delayed diagnosis. Specialized screening and risk‑factor monitoring—especially after menopause—are recommended to address microvascular dysfunction and other gender‑specific risks.