U.S. study warns of rising heart disease and stroke risk for younger women

Using national surveys and census projections, the American Heart Association estimates the share of adult women with cardiovascular disease will rise from 10.7% in 2020 to 14.4% in 2050, driven by aging and increasing rates of diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure, with the rise already seen among women ages 20–40 and disparities heavier among Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, and multiracial groups. The report notes GLP-1 weight‑loss drugs aren’t accounted for and urges improved prevention and early detection—regular checkups, medications, and healthier lifestyles—to reduce what it calls largely preventable cardiovascular risk (about 80%).