Although coronary heart disease (CHD) is traditionally viewed as a disease predominantly of males, it is the number one cause of death among American women. Half of all CHD deaths occur in women, and death within the first few years of initial myocardial infarction is significantly higher in women. Few women, however, perceive a significant health risk from heart disease. The dramatic decline in CHD mortality from lifestyle modification suggests that environmental factors play a significant role in genetic expression. Family-focused nursing care affects generations of family members and can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality from CHD.