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A Valentine to Your Heart
Hearts play a starring role in February, from Valentine’s Day to National Heart Month—an annual campaign that reminds people to prioritize the health of the organ that sustains life. This is a message women need to take to heart. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, and postmenopausal women face heightened vulnerability due to hormonal changes, which can affect cholesterol levels and blood vessel health.
But nearly 80 percent of cardiovascular events are preventable. Small, consistent efforts can make a huge difference. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein is a giant step in the right direction, as is aiming for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Another beneficial lifestyle change is stress reduction. Chronic stress can harm your heart. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or simply make time for activities you love. Recent advances in cardiac care further empower women to take control of their heart health. Noninvasive imaging, such as CT scans to assess arterial plaque in high-risk patients and coronary calcium scoring for lower-risk individuals, offer earlier detection and intervention. New research shows that three key measurements—LDL cholesterol, C-reactive protein (CRP), and lipoprotein (a)—can predict heart health over 30 years, providing a simple yet powerful framework for risk assessment and prevention.
My patients often ask, “Should I see a cardiologist?” The answer depends on individual risk factors. Women with a history of high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease should strongly consider consulting a cardiologist. But even those without these risk factors should discuss cardiovascular health with their primary care doctor. As we celebrate love this month, keep this in mind: Making your cardiovascular health a priority isn’t just a medical necessity; it’s a profound act of love for yourself and the people who depend on you.
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