Cardiovascular Disease in Women: A Nurse Practitioner's Guide to Prevention

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number 1 cause of death in women, accounting for about 1 in 3 deaths. This article reviews the 2011 American Heart Association effectiveness-based guidelines for CVD prevention in women. Risk assessment, prevention, and management of risks through lifestyle changes and pharmacotherapy are discussed. The article concludes with implications for nurse practitioners on ways to improve cardiovascular health among women in their practice.