There is a gender gap when it comes to heart disease.  Even though heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, heart attack is usually thought of as being a male disease. Researchers are increasingly finding that the results of a heart attack can be worse for women. In patients over 40 who have had a heart attack, a woman has a 23% chance of death within a year whereas for men it is an 18% chance.

Risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure and cholesterol are not ususally as well controlled in women as in men. It has been shown that among smokers who had a heart attack, women are twice as likely as men to suffer a complication within six months such as a blocked artery. It is also important not to ignore other risk factors such as family history of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, stress, and lack of exercise.

It appears that cholesterol plaques form differently in women and men.  In men, the plaques tend to build up in clumps; this is more easily diagnosed with an angiogram. The problem areas in men tend to be in main arteries. On the other hand, women form cholesterol plaques more evenly on the vessel walls; this makes it more difficult to diagnose. Women are more likely to have a problem in smaller vessels. A medical study several years ago showed that estrogen attaches to receptors inside of blood vessels. These are the same receptors to which cholesterol attaches. If the estrogen gets there first, this helps reduce the attachment of cholesterol. If a woman begins estrogen near the time of the menopause, this may help reduce the risk of heart disease. If estrogen is started later, the risk of heart disease appears to be increased. A woman’s natural estrogen is probably the main reason women are on an average 6 years older than men with their first heart attack.

It is important to discuss all health concerns with your physician. And, prevention is much better than treatment. Have a great day and remember to have fun!

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SPEAKING OF FUN – I photographed the Telfair Academy Guild’s Fashion Show last week. The show was put together by Gaucho of Savannah and Marcus Kenney a local artist who made wearable art for the models. I will have a collection of photographs of the show on my photography website in the near future. Will let you know when it is up and running.

You may have to click View Images at the bottom of the page to see the photo.

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In The Kitchen With Dr. B. – Southern Red Rice

Southern red rice is a perfect accompaniment to my previous recipe, sautéed fish filets, or almost any seafood. It takes about 45 minutes cooking time, and is best prepared in a heavy skillet with a top. It needs to be prepared over low heat and stirred occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking and burning. This recipe serves 4-8 people depending on their appetite for this dish.

2-4 slices bacon, chopped
1 small to medium onion, chopped
1 14 ounce can diced tomatoes
1 cup of long grain rice
1 pinch baking soda
1 teaspoon sugar

Fry the bacon and reserve on a paper towel. Depending on the fat content of the bacon, you may or may not want to discard some of the grease. Sautee the onion over moderate heat in the remaining bacon grease until lightly brown. Add the rice and stir for 1-2 minutes to coat the rice well. Add the diced tomatoes, and rinse the can with ½ can water and add to the rice mixture. Add the baking soda and sugar (and reserved bacon), stir well, cover, and cook over low heat until done. I usually do not add salt because of the salt content of the tomatoes and bacon; you can if it needs it. Occasionally stir the rice and add small amounts of water if necessary to prevent burning. Enjoy!