Why women delay heart attack help—and the deadly cost of hesitation

Women facing heart attacks often wait far longer than men to seek emergency help. New findings show they delay calling an ambulance by an average of an hour, raising the risk of serious complications. One survivor, Martina Grote, now speaks out about the dangers of ignoring symptoms and the need for faster action.

Heart attacks in women typically occur around a decade later in life than in men. Yet when symptoms appear, many dismiss them as less urgent. Common signs include chest pressure, pain in the upper abdomen, between the shoulder blades, or in the neck. These can differ from the classic symptoms men experience, leading to confusion and hesitation.

Martina Grote's own heart attack had a genetic cause. Since recovering, she has followed a strict regime of medication and cardiac rehabilitation exercises. Her experience drove her to support the women's heart health campaign, urging regular check-ups and preventive care.

Grote stresses that every minute counts during a heart attack. Delaying an ambulance call can worsen outcomes, yet women frequently underestimate their symptoms. While campaigns like Go Red for Women have reached millions since 2013, exact participation numbers remain unclear. The American Heart Association highlights awareness as a key goal but does not track individual engagement.

The gap in response times between men and women persists, with delays increasing risks. Grote's advocacy and ongoing prevention efforts aim to change this pattern. Recognising symptoms early and acting quickly could save lives and reduce long-term health damage.