Suriname health officials urge awareness of cardiovascular disease in women

In Suriname, cardiovascular disease is identified as a leading cause of death among women, with reports suggesting up to 60 percent of women in the country are affected. Dr. Shalini Dwarkasing-Ramautar, a member of the Heart for Women committee of the Rotary Club of Paramaribo Quota, is calling for increased structural awareness regarding heart health.

A significant challenge in treating women is that heart attack symptoms can differ substantially from those experienced by men, often leading to delayed medical intervention. To combat this, the committee is emphasizing the importance of recognizing specific female symptoms and promoting preventative lifestyle choices, such as healthy nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.

In anticipation of World Heart Day on September 29, organized by the World Heart Federation, the committee aims to extend awareness beyond a single day through year-round activities like lectures. The current global theme for 2024-2026 is ‘Use Heart for Action’. Additionally, the ‘Dress Red Day’ initiative continues to be used globally to highlight women's cardiovascular health.