1 in 4 women dies from heart disease and stroke – the same as men – yet research has shown that heart disease in women has been under-researched, under-diagnosed, and under-treated for far too long.

As women enter menopause, their risk of heart disease and stroke increases. The good news is that 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle. As well as making heart-healthy lifestyle changes, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of heart attack. Women are less likely than men to recognise the symptoms of heart attack, and also take longer than men to get medical help and treatment after experiencing one.

This September the Irish Heart Foundation is running the Her Heart Matters campaign with support of the Department of Health and the HSE, to encourage women to know the symptoms of heart attack and to talk to their doctor about their heart health. By knowing what the symptoms are, women can take the steps that can help get timely treatment.

As part of the campaign we have developed a range of resources to empower you to keep the conversation about women’s heart health going, make sustainable lifestyle changes and spot the symptoms of heart attack.