Heart attacks in women: How we're missing a beat on women’s heart health

A quick response can save a life in the event of a heart attack. But women are more likely to dismiss their symptoms — often different from the chest-clutching stereotype — because they see it as a condition that predominantly affects older men

Sharon Butler pictured at home. Picture: Eddie O'Hare.

Sharon Butler’s 46th birthday was very nearly her last.

The now 53-year-old from Mahon, Cork, celebrated by having lunch with her daughter and treating herself to a new pair of shoes: “When I got home, I decided to try the shoes on again, and as I leaned forward, I got a sudden pain in my chest. I thought it was indigestion, but my daughter panicked, telling me I had turned a funny colour.”