Shefali Jariwala, the beloved actor and model, tragically passed away on June 27, 2025, at the age of 42. Reports suggest she succumbed to a cardiac arrest, prompting immediate medical attention at Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Mumbai, where she was sadly declared dead on arrival. Known for her captivating roles in *Bigg Boss 13* and her iconic 2002 music video *Kaanta Laga*, her sudden demise has once again spotlighted the critical issue of heart health among women.
Understanding Heart Disease in Women: The Alarming Statistics
**Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women**, responsible for approximately one in every three female fatalities in the U.S. alone, as highlighted by a 2017 study published in PubMed Central. This sadly rings true in India as well, where heart conditions are skyrocketing.
“**Globally and within India, the rise of cardiac issues among women is concerning.** The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that cardiovascular diseases account for around 17.3 million deaths annually, making them the leading cause of death for women worldwide,” states Dr. Rudradev Pandey, additional director of intervention cardiology at CK Birla Hospital/RBH, Jaipur, in a 2023 interview with HT Lifestyle.
According to recent research conducted in 2020, nearly **18.69% of Indian women aged 15 to 49 suffer from untreated hypertension**, with urban areas showing a higher percentage compared to rural ones. **This alarming trend must not be ignored.**
Eight Crucial Facts Women Must Know About Heart Health
In a compelling series of revelations, Dr. Dmitry Yaranov urges women to recognize the signs and dangers of heart disease. Here are the **eight essential facts** that can empower women to take control of their heart health:
- **Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women.** It’s crucial to dispel the myth that it’s predominantly a ‘man’s disease.’
- **Women’s heart attack symptoms often diverge from the norm.** Instead of the classic chest pain, symptoms like nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath may occur, leading to misdiagnosis.
- **Women face a higher mortality risk post-heart attack.** A greater proportion of women die within the first year after an attack, primarily due to unrecognized symptoms.
- **Arterial plaque buildup manifests differently in women.** Standard diagnostic tests, rooted in male patterns, often overlook female presentations of heart disease.
- **Emotional health plays a pivotal role.** Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly heighten heart disease risk and are often neglected in discussions about heart health.
- **Menopause escalates heart disease risk.** The decline in estrogen during menopause removes a protective barrier, increasing susceptibility to hypertension and heart attacks.
- **Women are frequently denied lifesaving treatments.** Medication, stents, and CPR are less likely to be administered to women, despite their critical need.
- **The positive takeaway: Most heart disease cases are preventable.** Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle and staying vigilant can save lives.
Implementing Preventive Measures: Six Lifestyle Changes for Women
To mitigate the risk of heart disease, Dr. Pandey emphasizes the importance of early screening and risk factor management. Here are **six transformative lifestyle changes** every woman should consider:
- **Embrace a Nutritious Diet:**
- **Prioritize Regular Exercise:**
- **Mitigate Stress:**
- **Quit Smoking:**
- **Moderate Alcohol Consumption:**
- **Manage Chronic Conditions:**
A diet abundant in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while minimizing saturated and trans fats can significantly reduce heart disease risk. Recent studies link balanced diets to lower cardiovascular incidence among Indian women.
**Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly.** Not only does physical activity enhance blood flow and lift mood, but it also helps maintain an ideal weight.
Chronic stress can elevate heart disease risk. **Incorporate stress-reducing techniques** like yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises into your routine.
**Smoking significantly increases heart disease risk.** Ditching cigarettes is one of the best decisions you can make for your overall health.
Excessive alcohol intake can lead to serious health issues. **Limit your drinking** to promote better heart health and overall wellbeing.
Women with diabetes, high blood pressure, or elevated cholesterol levels must closely monitor these conditions through **medication, diet changes, and regular health check-ups.**
Note to readers: This article serves informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns.
