India, Sept. 27 -- Heart disease is often seen as a "man's problem," yet it poses an equally serious risk for women, largely because it is underdiagnosed and frequently overlooked. In India, heart attacks among women are rising, driven by urban lifestyles, stress and changing dietary habits. The situation is particularly concerning because women's symptoms often appear subtly, making early detection more difficult. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among Indian women. According to the Indian Heart Association, nearly one in three deaths among women is due to heart disease. Studies suggest that women in India experience heart attacks almost 10 years earlier than their Western counterparts, with many cases appearing in their 40s and 50s. Data from the Global Burden of Disease Study highlights that Indian women have one of the highest mortality rates from heart disease in the world. Factors such as diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure are prevalent in women, especially in urban areas, making them more vulnerable. Shockingly, research has shown that women are less likely to receive timely treatment for heart attacks compared to men, which further increases fatality rates. Unlike men, women may not always experience the "classic" crushing chest pain. Instead, symptoms can be subtle - such as shortness of breath, nausea, extreme fatigue, or pain in the jaw, back, or stomach. Because these signs are often dismissed as indigestion or stress, women delay seeking medical help. This delay is costly: studies show that mortality after a heart attack is 20-25% higher in women than men. Hormonal changes after menopause also raise risks, as the protective effects of estrogen decline. Additionally, conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes, and pregnancy-related hypertension significantly increase long-term cardiovascular risk in Indian women. The modern Indian lifestyle has drastically changed women's health. Increasing work stress, reduced physical activity, dependence on processed foods, and irregular sleep patterns are all contributing factors. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the rates of obesity in Indian women have doubled over the last decade. Coupled with high rates of diabetes and smoking (especially among younger women), the heart disease burden is intensifying. Another cultural challenge is that women often place their family's needs above their own health. Routine check-ups, exercise, and preventive care take a backseat, which delays early detection of risk factors. The good news is that heart attacks in women are largely preventable. Simple lifestyle changes can significantly reduce risks: For Indian women, raising awareness is crucial. Recognising early symptoms, seeking timely treatment, and prioritising heart health can save countless lives. Heart attacks in women are not rare - they are a growing epidemic in India. With younger women now at risk due to lifestyle changes, the need for awareness and proactive prevention has never been greater. Women must understand that caring for their heart is not a luxury but a necessity, not only for themselves but also for their families who depend on them....