Manila, Feb. 1 -- A medical expert urged women to monitor heart health during midlife, a crucial period for early intervention to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

In her discussion on cardiovascular issues during menopause on Saturday, part of the midyear convention of the Philippine Heart Association - Philippine College of Cardiology (PHA-PCC) held in Iloilo City, Dr. Lourdes Ella Santos highlighted the rising risk of CVD, particularly coronary heart disease (CHD), after menopause.

"There is a notable increase in cardiovascular risk after menopause," Santos said, explaining that while premenopausal women have a lower risk, the number of cases of heart disease among women becomes equal to that of men once they reach me...