 | Dr. George R. Watson, D.O. is certified in Preventive Health, Occupational Medicine, Bariatric Medicine, and is the first physician in Kansas to be a Diplomate of the American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine. Dr. Watson has served in the Air Force as a Weapons Systems Officer, Electronic Warfare Officer, and Flight Surgeon. Dr. Watson is located in the Park City Medical Center, 425 E. 61st St. North. #2 and can be reached at 316-744-3400 |
Health & Medicine
2006-07-01 09:38:00
Mortality, heart attacks and gender
QUESTION: I heard that 38 percent of women compared with 25 percent of men will die within one year after a heart attack. Why the difference?
ANSWER: There are several reasons for the large difference in mortality. One of the biggest is perception of risk. Although cardiovascular disease kills nearly twice as many women each year as cancer, most women are more focused on their annual Pap and mammogram than an annual cardiovascular risk assessment. Physiology is another important factor. According to the WISE study, the more diffuse plaques that form in the smaller coronary arteries of women may not be spotted by a coronary angiogram.Question: What are the major risk factors?ANSWER: Dyslipidemia (high cholesterol and triglycerides) is number one, followed by impaired glucose function (including diabetes), high blood pressure, and obesity.Question: What can a woman do to minimize her risks of heart disease?ANSWER: Prevention is the key. This is accomplished by lowering cholesterol (including homocysteine and C reactive protein) levels, correcting glucose intolerance, lowering blood pressure to 110/70, reducing weight to normal for height, and by stopping smoking. Regular aerobic exercise and one 81mg dose of aspirin a day add to the benefits.For an evaluation focused on YOU, and a prevention plan tailored to your needs, call 744-3400 today for your appointment.
