For decades, women have been driving change in cardiovascular health, but their contributions have often gone unrecognized. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it is time to spotlight the researchers, clinicians, advocates, and patients who have worked tirelessly to improve heart disease prevention, treatment, and awareness.
Heart disease is the number one killer of women, yet research and medical care have historically been centered on men. Because of this, women are often misdiagnosed, undertreated, and left out of critical research studies. But thanks to the work of many remarkable women, the landscape is changing.
From pioneering physicians who have reshaped cardiology to grassroots advocates making an impact in their communities, women are stepping up to ensure every woman has access to the heart care she deserves.
Breaking Barriers in Heart Research
Historically, heart disease research focused almost exclusively on men—even though cardiovascular disease affects women differently. That started to change thanks to pioneers like Dr. Nanette Wenger, one of the first cardiologists to challenge the medical community’s lack of attention to women’s heart health.
Dr. Wenger’s research helped uncover the unique risk factors and symptoms women experience, paving the way for changes in medical education and treatment. She continues to inspire doctors and researchers to advocate for sex-specific heart disease research and improved care for women.
Another leader in this space, Dr. Sharonne Hayes, founded the Women’s Heart Clinic at Mayo Clinic, focusing on diagnosing, treating, and educating women about cardiovascular disease. Her work has helped close the gap in heart health disparities and ensure more women receive accurate diagnoses and treatment. Dr. Hayes serves as Medical Director of the WomenHeart Science & Leadership Symposium and has dedicated countless hours to training Champions, furthering her impact.
WomenHeart Champions: The Power of Peer Support
Beyond the research labs and hospitals, women living with heart disease are making a difference in their own communities. WomenHeart Champions, a group of heart disease survivors trained to educate, advocate, and support other women, have transformed the patient experience.
One such Champion, Ann de Velasco, has been a tireless advocate for nearly two decades. After graduating from the WomenHeart Science & Leadership Symposium in 2003, she founded WomenHeart of Miami, leading support groups, organizing community events, and ensuring more women get the education and resources they need.
The impact of peer support cannot be overstated. Research shows that women with heart disease who connect with others going through similar experiences feel more empowered, informed, and motivated to take charge of their health.
The Next Generation of Leaders
Women continue to break new ground in heart health. Leaders like Dr. LaPrincess Brewer, a 2021 Wenger Award recipient, are working to improve access to equitable cardiovascular care, particularly for women of color, who face disproportionate risks and outcomes.
Dr. Rekha Mankad, a 2025 Wenger Awardee, is advancing care for women with heart disease as the Director of The Women’s Heart Clinic at Mayo Clinic. She specializes in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular disease in women, with a focus on the connection between autoimmune diseases and heart health. Through her clinical work and research, she is improving outcomes for women often overlooked in traditional heart care.
Women’s leadership in heart health extends beyond the medical field. Innovator Alicia Chong Rodriguez, CEO of Bloomer Tech, has developed wearable technology that integrates heart-monitoring sensors into everyday bras. Her goal? To ensure more women receive early detection and better monitoring of their heart health.
How You Can Join the Movement
While these leaders are making a tremendous impact, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women. There is still work to do, and you can be part of the change.
Here are a few ways to get involved:
✔️ Educate yourself and others: Learn about women’s unique heart disease risks and share that knowledge.
✔️ Advocate for research and policy changes: Support legislation and initiatives aimed at closing the gender gap in heart disease research and care.
✔️ Join WomenHeart’s movement: Whether by becoming a WomenHeart Champion, attending events, or donating, you can help advance the cause.
This Women’s History Month, let’s honor the women shaping the future of heart health and commit to building a healthier future for all.
