KARACHI, September 28, 2026: Pakistan has recorded the highest age-standardized mortality rate from ischemic heart disease among women across five South Asian countries, according to a study published in JACC: Asia, highlighting the need for stronger prevention, screening and follow-up care for cardiovascular disease among Pakistani women.
The study analysed Global Burden of Disease data from 2005 and 2021 for Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. In 2021, Pakistan recorded the highest age-standardized ischemic heart disease mortality rate among women in the five-country comparison, at about 172 deaths per 100,000.
The research also found that Pakistan was the only country in the comparison where the mortality-to-prevalence index for ischemic heart disease was higher among women than men in 2021. The researchers identified high systolic blood pressure and low vegetable and fibre intake among important factors associated with the higher mortality burden among Pakistani women.
The findings were discussed during the launch of the “Her Heart Matters” awareness campaign at the Karachi Press Club on the occasion of World Heart Day. The campaign aims to improve awareness of cardiovascular disease among women, with a focus on early diagnosis, screening and treatment.
The initiative was launched by Pharma Evo in collaboration with the Pakistan Cardiac Society, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Pakistan, the Pakistan Society of Internal Medicine and Go Red for Women.
Pregnancy and Diabetes Highlight Cardiovascular Risks
Health experts at the event said cardiovascular risks among women can be overlooked, particularly during pregnancy, after childbirth and around menopause.
Prof Dr Tahir Abbas stressed the importance of regular medical monitoring during pregnancy and after delivery. He also highlighted the role of appropriate birth spacing, family planning and continued follow-up in protecting women’s health.
Prof Dr Haleema Yaseen said around 4% of pregnant women screened through her clinical service were diagnosed with heart-related conditions. She noted that pregnancy can provide an opportunity to identify high blood pressure and previously undiagnosed cardiovascular problems.
Prof Dr Shabnam Naveed said more than 90% of women attending the diabetes clinic at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) had risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. She identified diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity as important contributors to heart disease risk.
Experts Stress Long-Term Treatment and Prevention
Prof Dr Fawad Farooq, General Secretary of the Pakistan Cardiac Society, said psychological stress can also contribute to cardiovascular risk. He also pointed to pressure on specialised cardiac hospitals because of gaps in cardiovascular care at primary and secondary healthcare levels.
Experts further warned that some patients discontinue prescribed medicines only weeks after undergoing angioplasty, potentially increasing the risk of further cardiac complications. They stressed the importance of following medical advice and continuing prescribed treatment.
Women were also advised to remain physically active and reduce their intake of fried foods, bakery products, soft drinks and sugary beverages.
The campaign organisers said greater awareness, early screening, appropriate treatment and long-term follow-up are important components of reducing the cardiovascular disease burden among women in Pakistan.