Prevention for the older woman - A practical guide to managing cardiovascular disease

American women are more likely to die from cardiovascular disease than from any other cause. Although hypertension is most prevalent, most deaths are attributed to coronary heart disease. Heart disease in women manifests approximately 12 to 15 years later than in men, up until menopause. Then the severity of coronary artery lesions in women accelerates until it equals. or surpasses that of men by the late 70s or early 80s. Physicians can help Ider, women reduce their risk for heart disease and stroke by managing hypertension and hypercholesterolemia and providing beta-blocker treatment when indicated after MI. Nonpharmacologic interventions may be effective as well. New guidelines,for aspirin help identify women, under age 80 who would benefit most from antiplatelet therapy.