New Research Shows Sharp Rise in Cardiovascular Disease Among Women by 2050

St. Louis, Mo. (KFMO) - New research indicates the number of women living with cardiovascular disease is expected to rise sharply over the next 25 years, with major increases in high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.

Nearly 60 percent of women in the United States could have high blood pressure by 2050, up from about 50 percent in 2020. Researchers also project more than 25 percent of women will have diabetes, and 60 percent will be classified as obese. Health experts say the trend is especially concerning because the numbers are climbing among younger women and even girls.

Dr. Karen Joynt Maddox, a cardiologist at Washington University in St. Louis, says lifestyle factors are playing a significant role.

She says projections show growing rates of chronic conditions among younger women.

Health experts stress that improving diet, increasing physical activity, and prioritizing sleep are key steps to reversing the trend and improving long-term heart health.