Experts Weigh In
“Prior to 2004, most women and many doctors—including cardiologists—thought that heart disease was a ‘man’s disease,’ and were not even looking for heart disease in women. But now we know that particularly after menopause, which nowadays is almost half your life, there is generally a worsening of blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and other cardiovascular risk factors.” Cardiologist and Assistant Professor Gina Lundberg, clinical director of Emory Women’s Heart Center, Cardiology Today.
“As we age, we lose certain aspects of our brain function—our spot-on memory for specific events and details, for one—but we gain a lot too. It’s not really a downhill process. You’re just trading different strengths and weaknesses.” Emory Assistant Professor of Medicine Sharon Bergquist, SilverSneakers.
“I can’t tell you how many providers don’t want to ask. There’s so much stigma attached to identifying women who are drinking. Alcohol is so pervasive in our culture. But no one wants to talk about it.” Psychiatrist and Emory Assistant Professor Julie Kable, STAT.
