This section of womenshealth.gov connects you to heart health web sites from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). These sites can help you learn more about heart disease and stroke. Did you know there are things you can do to lower your chances of having a heart attack or stroke? You can reduce your risk by eating heart-healthy foods, getting regular exercise, keeping a healthy weight, and quitting smoking. Check out the web sites in this section to learn more.

The Basics of Heart Disease

Heart disease is the number 1 killer of women. Whatever your age, you need to take action to protect your heart. People can have different kinds of heart disease. The most common kind of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD). You can get this disease when your heart doesn't get enough blood. If your heart doesn't get enough blood, you can have a heart attack.

Know the Signs of a Heart Attack

The Basics of Stroke

Stroke is the number 3 killer of women. Stroke is also a major cause of serious, long-term disability for women. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off. When that happens, the brain doesn't get the oxygen and nutrients it needs. Then certain brain cells are injured or die.

Know the Signs of a Stroke

	Peripheral artery disease (PAD) happens when plaque (fat) builds up in the blood vessels in your legs. PAD puts you at risk for a heart attack or stroke. Get more information.
	The WISEWOMAN program provides under– or uninsured 40– to 64–year–old women with information and resources to help prevent heart disease. Get more information.