Heart Attacks by Age and Gender

The graph shows how age and gender influence the frequency of heart attacks in the US.

Less than 6% of all heart attacks occur in the 29-44 age group. The number of women who suffer heart attacks in this group is negligible –  only 3000 per year, compared to 123,000 men.

However the proportion of men and women with heart attacks rises dramatically between 45 and 64, with over half a million per year. Over 420,000 men a year in this age group have heart attacks. The incidence amongst women increases –  women have one heart attack for every three men in this age group. 

Over the age of 65, the number of men suffering heart attacks only increases slightly. However there is a huge increase in the number of women with heart attacks – they comprise over 40% of all victims.

In conclusion, men are more likely to be the victims of heart attacks at all ages, but women are increasingly likely over the age of 65.

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