You may be aware of HPV’s link to cancer, particularly cervical cancer. However, recent research reveals a concerning connection between high-risk HPV strains and cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death among women in the U.S.
A study of Korean women found that those with high-risk HPV were at a significantly higher risk of dying from heart disease and stroke compared to those without HPV. Moreover, women with obesity and high-risk HPV had even higher risks.
HPV has been associated with clogged arteries in women, and this study is the first to track the link between high-risk HPV and heart-related death.
Furthermore, another study found that perimenopausal and menopausal women with HPV were more likely to have coronary artery disease.
Inflammation caused by the virus may block blood vessels, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Heart disease in women
About 1 in 5 women die from heart disease each year. Blocked blood vessels, which can lead to a build-up of plaque in the arteries, can be particularly dangerous for women.
Research shows women are more likely to have coronary microvascular disease (CMD) compared to men. The heart condition causes squeezing and chest discomfort caused by problems in the network of tiny blood vessels in the heart. This can lead to heart attack, heart failure and death.
Read: Why Don’t Women Get the Same Treatment for Heart Disease as Men? >>
Overall, risk factors for heart disease include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Stress
- Smoking
- Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions
- Family history
- Lack of physical activity
- Living with overweight or obesity
Some women have no symptoms of heart disease. And symptoms of heart disease in women can be different from symptoms of heart disease in men.
In addition to pain or heaviness in the chest, symptoms can include pain in the jaw, neck, throat, arm, shoulder, back and upper abdomen.
Read: Symptoms of Heart Attacks in Women >>
Reduce your risk for HPV and heart disease
Luckily, there are steps you can take to protect against getting cancer from HPV. Routine screening, which includes HPV tests, Pap tests, or combination tests, can help you catch precancerous cells, which means you can stop cancer before it starts, or catch it early, when it’s easier to treat.
Read: Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Cervical Cancer Protection >>
Second, you can get vaccinated against HPV. While the vaccine is ideally given to young teens, adults up to age 45 still may be able to get the vaccine. If you have not gotten the HPV vaccine, your HCP can help you decide if you’re a good candidate.
Watch: How to Talk to Your Healthcare Provider About Getting the HPV Vaccine as an Adult >>
Regular visits to your HCP are also part of reducing the risk for heart disease. Talk to your HCP about tests for blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. High blood pressure can lead to many serious health conditions, including stroke.
Outside of your HCP, incorporating healthy habits can also help reduce the risk. These can include:
- Get at least 150 minutes of exercise a week
- Make healthy food choices, like limiting processed foods and red meats, and eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains
- Limit your alcohol intake (if any)
- Manage your stress
- Don’t smoke
Both HPV and heart disease can have serious — even deadly — consequences for women’s health. But you can take steps to reduce your risk for cervical cancer and protect your heart.
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