Management and prevention of cardiovascular disease in women.

Cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, and stroke, is the number one killer of men and women in the United States and Canada. In the United States, cardiovascular disease accounts for more deaths in women, compared with men, every year since 1984. Unfortunately, many women are unaware of their risk for developing cardiovascular disease. This article reviews the statistics of this disease, identifies the risk factors, and reviews the evidence-based guidelines for prevention of cardiovascular disease in women.