Women’s Health Is Heart Health

Women spend much of their lives caring for others. At Decatur County Hospital, we want every woman to remember that her health deserves the same attention.

According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women, accounting for approximately one in three female deaths each year. Nearly 45% of women age 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. While these statistics are serious, many cardiovascular conditions may be prevented or managed through education, healthy choices and appropriate medical care.

Heart Health Through Every Stage of Life

A woman’s heart health can be affected by experiences throughout her life. Pregnancy complications such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease later. Risk factors may also accelerate as women approach menopause.

Routine visits give you and your healthcare team an opportunity to connect the different parts of your health history and identify concerns early.

Common risk factors include:

• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Physical inactivity
• Excess weight
• Chronic stress
• Family history of heart disease or stroke
• Certain pregnancy complications

Because high blood pressure often causes no noticeable symptoms, regular screenings are especially important. Staying active, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and managing stress can also support long-term heart health.

Comprehensive Care for Women

Women’s health is a priority at Decatur County Hospital. Our Women’s Health Clinic provides personalized care for a wide range of needs, including:

• Well-woman exams and routine screenings
• Breast and pelvic exams
• Pap smears and cancer screenings
• Family planning and contraceptive care
• Menstrual irregularities and pelvic pain
• Endometriosis and uterine fibroids
• Menopause care
• Urinary concerns
• Gynecologic oncology and surgical services

Elizabeth Dubil, MD, FACOG, is double-board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology and gynecologic oncology. She provides care ranging from routine women’s health services to the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic cancers. Juanita Kahler, WHNP-BC, offers personalized gynecologic care centered on each patient’s needs and goals.

Women also have access to specialized cardiology care at DCH. Steven Mehta, MD, provides experienced interventional cardiology care, while Andrew J. Kaplan, MD, brings more than 30 years of cardiovascular experience and specialized expertise in cardiology and cardiac electrophysiology.

Together, these services help women receive comprehensive care from experienced providers without traveling far from home.

Make Your Health a Priority

Heart health, reproductive health, pregnancy history, menopause and overall wellness are often connected. Do not wait until something feels wrong to start the conversation. Schedule routine screenings, know your risk factors and talk with your healthcare provider about changes or concerns.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, call the DCH Outpatient Clinic at 641-446-2285.