Ask the Experts: "Which lifestyle change would improve my risk most?"
 Ellyn Thoreen, ARNP Women's Health Cascade Valley Smokey Point Clinic |
Q: I am a 50 years old woman. I am 20 pounds over weight and do not exercise regularly. I also smoke and have high blood pressure as well as high cholesterol. What are my chances of having heart disease? I know I need to make some changes, but I can't do it all at once. Which lifestyle change would improve my risk the most?
--B.C. Granite Falls
A: When put to fellow colleagues, the chances of your having Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) range from "pretty good" to "95 to 100 percent." But take heart, many of your risk factors are modifiable and you can make changes that will greatly reduce your likelihood of progressing to heart attack or stroke.
We felt that stopping smoking would provide you with the most immediate benefit in reducing your risk. The next step would be to control your cholesterol and hypertension with exercise, diet, stress reduction, and medication as needed.
CVD is the leading cause of death in women. With rates on the rise, you are wise to take stock of your situation and aim for a heart-healthy second half of life. Here are four excellent resources to get you started - and they are free!
- Go Red for Women - American Heart Association materials
- Washington Quit Line - Smoking cessation programs - 1-877-270-STOP
- Simple Solutions - Simple steps to reduce CVD in women
- Choose to Move - A twelve week program to promote healthy lifestyles
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It should not replace a visit with your health care professional. Call your doctor if you need more information or have additional questions.