“A Woman’s Heart” Guard it with care to save it

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease is often thought of as “the men’s disease”. However, it is now known that the prevalence of heart disease becomes equal in men and women at older age. Moreover, mortality from heart disease is higher in women compared to men.In Lebanon, the Ministry of Public Health does not provide awareness campaigns regarding heart disease, as is the case for breast cancer and immunizations. The purpose of this project is to propose an awareness campaign about heart disease targeting Lebanese women.Method: The material that was developedfor the educational campaign includes: 1) a video of a woman experiencing a heart attack; 2) a poster that depicts the main manifestations of a heart attack; 3) and a brochure that includes risk factors for coronary artery disease, manifestations of a heart attack and what to do in case they occur, in addition to preventive measures that target middle aged women population. The motivational approach was used in the proposed educational materials in order to reduce fear and denial among women and teach them self-evaluation of their own symptoms of heart attack with the right steps to follow in order to save their lives. The material was based on the literature, done in consultation with a graphic designer and evaluated through feedback from lay people.Future steps: The educational material will be run by cardiologists to get their support. The campaign will be piloted by joining other groups committed to women’s issues or women’s health such as YADUNA, Ahluna, KAFA. The piloting of the campaign shall be done in a center after introducing the objectives. Then, posters will be displayed after taking permission, the video willbe played, and brochures will be distributed to women, followed by group discussions. Then, a survey later on would be distributed for evaluation.Other sites shall include private cardiology clinicsand obstetric gynecology services in hospitals. At a national level, the Ministry of Health, the Lebanese Red Cross