Pakistani women face highest heart disease mortality in South Asia, study finds

Karachi: Pakistani women are facing the highest mortality rate from ischaemic heart disease among five South Asian nations, according to a study published in JACC: Asia. Factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity are identified as major contributors to their increased risk. On the eve of World Heart Day, health experts gathered at the Karachi Press Club to launch a nationwide 'Her Heart Matters' campaign, aimed at promoting awareness, screening, and early detection of cardiovascular risks.

The 2026 study compared Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, revealing that Pakistan had the highest age-standardised death rate from ischaemic heart disease among women in 2021. This rate was also higher than that of men in the same group. High blood pressure and diets lacking in vegetables and fibre were found to be leading contributors to heart disease deaths among Pakistani women.

Experts highlighted the importance of addressing heart health during pregnancy, after childbirth, and after menopause, as well as the need for stronger primary care, proper follow-up, and regular medication use to prevent repeat heart attacks and reduce the burden on specialised hospitals.