5. Heart Disease. According to the National Institutes of Health, heart disease is the number one killer of Latinas in this country—yes, surpassing even cancer. Factors that contribute to the risk of developing heart disease, such as overweight, obesity, and diabetes, are all on the rise in the Hispanic community. While there is no single test for heart disease, your blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and body mass index help assess risk. For a list of questions to take with you to your doctor, go to The Heart Truth for Latinas.
