Why Dying Women are Reluctant to Dial 999

heart attack women don't dial 999, heart attack symptoms in women


A British Heart Foundation survey found that women experiencing the classic symptoms of a heart attack waited on average 24 minutes longer than men before dialling 999 – a delay that could seriously reduce their survival chances. 
 
35% of women polled said they wouldn’t dial 999 because they feared embarrassment if their condition turned out to be minor. 

Dr. Mike Knapton, Associate Medical Direction of the BHF, speaking to The Times said:

‘Every second counts when you’re having a heart attack and calling 999 at the very first sign means you’re much more likely to survive’.

Different Symptoms

The survey also found that 33% of women polled would not dial 999 unless experiencing really severe chest pain. 

The problem with that is that this is a symptom more commonly found in men.  “Milder” signs such as dull pain, a heavy feeling in the chest, or feeling dizzy and light-headed, are more likely to occur among women with heart problems.    The BHF is now urging women to familiarise themselves with the tell-tale signs.

Around 90,000 people in the UK are killed by heart attacks ever year. One in three die on their way to hospital, often after waiting too long to seek medical help.

More Info

Article:  Women Less Likely to Recognise Fatal Heart Attack Symptoms (Nursing Times)

Article: Heart Attacks in Women – A Silent Killer (The Independent)