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Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among both women and men in the United States, accounting for nearly half of all deaths and considerable morbidity. Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and one that is particularly potent in women; its prevalence has increased dramatically in recent years. Epidemiologic data indicate that cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes share common risk factors and are largely preventable; indeed, findings from the Nurses' Health Study suggest that 74% of cardiovascular disease cases, 82% of coronary heart disease cases, and 91% of diabetes cases in women could be prevented by not smoking, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, eating healthier food, and drinking moderate amounts of alcohol. This article reviews lifestyle risk factors and preventive strategies for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes among women.
Bassuk et al. (Thu,) studied this question.