Heart disease is the number one cause of death for women in this country (and now world wide). It kills more every year than all cancers combined. Women with heart disease wait longer before getting help. They are more likely to have atypical symptoms and are more often misdiagnosed.  Once diagnosed, they get treated less aggressively, will do worse and are more likely to die from their disease than a man. 

The first sign of underlying heart disease can be sudden death. That’s why prevention is so critical. 

I am Dr. Holly Andersen. I am a cardiologist, and one of the great things about being a cardiologist is that there is so much you can do to prevent heart disease.

When we speak of heart disease, we are most often referring to “coronary artery disease” – or blockages (from atherosclerotic plaque) in the arteries that supply your heart with blood.

February is heart month. Everyday this month I will share with you a pearl of wisdom that can improve your health and reduce your risk of developing and dying from heart disease.

Tip 1: Exercise is the fountain of youth.

60% of U.S. women have no regular physical activity. Prolonged sitting predicts cardiovascular risk.

We know that physical activity improves blood pressure, decreases your chance of developing diabetes, and improves your good cholesterol (HDL).  Studies have shown that just walking 20 to 30 minutes a day may reduce premature death rates by 50% or more in both men and women. 

Physical activity is the fountain of youth – any movement that increases your heart rate is healthy. Walk, run, swim, dance, bike or stretch – just put more action into your day. This will be good for your mood, energy, sleep, bones, and we believe mental acuity and memory as well.