One in six women die from heart disease

A British Heart Foundation survey has found that two-thirds of women aged over 65 have never talked about heart disease with their family doctor.

Most thought that breast cancer was a bigger threat to their health.

On Sunday - designated World Heart Day, the charity has launched a campaign to raise awareness of the problem.

Statistically women are four times more likely to die from heart disease than breast cancer.

Through most of their lives, women have a lower heart risk than men, but their risk increases after the menopause.

Smoke threat

The British Heart Foundation findings showed that almost four out of five women had never had a discussion about heart disease with either their GP or practice nurse.

Even older women had not sought advice on the issue - despite the fact that they are at significant risk.

Tips to reduce heart risk Stop smoking Eat fruit and vegetables Eat fish twice a week Take at least 30 minutes of moderate activity on five or more days a week Drink alcohol only in moderation Keep your weight down

Professor Sir Charles George, the medical director of the BHF, said: "Coronary heart disease is not the preserve of men.

"This is why we need to educate women about looking after their heart from a younger age by leading a healthy lifestyle and not taking up smoking.

"Unfortunately girls now smoke in larger numbers than boys - putting them at greater risk of developing coronary heart disease in the future."

In addition, three-quarters of women fail to meet government-recommended guidelines for physical activity, and a third are overweight.

The foundation has issued a series of tips to women on reducing their risk of heart disease.