Modifiable risk factors for the primary prevention of heart disease in women.

Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death in women older than 50. This article will discuss the role of modifiable risk factors for the primary prevention of heart disease in women, including hypertension, smoking, obesity, and exercise. We will also address what is known about the role of psychological factors in the development of heart disease in women. Cholesterol and diabetes are discussed only in the context of obesity because both are addressed elsewhere in this issue. Finally, this article will review the evidence on the use of low-dose aspirin and antioxidants in the primary prevention of heart disease in women.