WLWT: Avondale man encourages community to consider impact of heart health

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women and men. The American Heart Association says cardiovascular disease claims the lives of 1 in 3 women about every 80 seconds. Dr. Hina Jamali, assistant professor in the UC College of Medicine and UC Health cardiologist, told a journalist with WLWT-Channel 5 that medical professionals have to be intentional in educating the community about heart health symptoms.

The most common symptom is chest pain or tightness, but for women, it may not be the most severe, said Jamali. Women are more likely to experience other symptoms like indigestion, back or jaw pain, fatigue or shortness of breath.

Jamali offered her insight as part of American Heart Month; February is designated as such to call attention to heart disease in the United States.

"About 650,000 Americans get affected and are killed by heart disease per year," Jamali said. "We see more men in their younger years -- like 35 plus, 40s -- than women in their age group. Women, I would say it hits them five to 10 years later."

Listen to Dr. Jamali's interview with WLWT-Channel 5

Hear Dr. Jamali speak about National Wear Red Day with WLWT-Channel 5

Read more about American Heart Month