Risk factors for coronary heart disease in women

The increased focus on risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) in women has greatly improved our understanding of this disease in women. The evidence against cigarette smoking, elevated serum cholesterol, and high blood pressure is strong, and sustained campaigns are underway to prevent and appropriately manage these conditions. The importance of adequate physical activity and weight control is well established, and research continues on other emerging risk factors. This article presents data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), a large, representative survey done periodically by the US government to evaluate the state of the nation's health.