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FLINT, MICH. – Brandi Buskirk, PA-C, is a passionate advocate for women’s heart health, aiming to raise awareness about the prevalence of cardiac issues among women. 44% of women are living with some form of heart disease, and it is the leading cause of death in women in America.
Women are more likely to have heart disease in the smaller arteries of the heart, which makes it more difficult to identify and can cause delays in treatment. Brandi Buskirk emphasizes the importance of this issue, stating, “Women often postpone seeking medical attention due to time constraints or the fear that their concerns won’t be taken seriously by healthcare providers. That’s why I’m passionate about amplifying women’s voices in discussions about their health.”
Various health conditions unique to women, such as anemia, early menopause, endometriosis and the use of hormonal birth control, contribute to an elevated risk of heart disease. Additionally, factors like autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, inactive lifestyles, and mental health issues common in women promote a higher risk, further proving the critical need for targeted awareness and preventive measures.
Contrary to popular belief, the symptoms of a heart attack can manifest differently in women compared to men. While men typically experience pain in their left arm and chest, women often describe chest discomfort as a pressure, squeezing, or tightness, accompanied by sensations in the neck and throat and shoulder. Mental stress is also more likely to trigger chest pain, rather than physical activity, in women.
“The fact is, more women die of heart disease each year than men,” Buskirk emphasizes. “Heart disease doesn’t discriminate based on gender, but its impact on women is often overlooked. It’s time to shine a spotlight on women’s heart health and advocate for early intervention and prevention.”
Brandi Buskirk wants to urge all women to visit their healthcare provider, get the important diagnostic tests they need, if their doctor sees fit, and know their risk factors. Medical providers can also help with treatment options and plans. If you are looking for a new provider that you can trust, Brandi Buskirk is accepting patients. Please call 810-406-4246 or visit HamiltonCHN.org to schedule an appointment with Brandi, or any other Hamilton providers.
About Hamilton Community Health Network
Hamilton Community Health Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, quality, community-oriented health care for the underserved throughout Genesee, Lapeer County and surrounding areas. The organization is part of a national network of primary care centers (Section 330E) aimed at improving health services for inner-city populations. These centers provide comprehensive care to patients regardless of their ability to pay. For more information, visit hamiltonchn.org.
