Unraveling Myths About Heart Disease
Heart disease takes a life every 33 seconds, according to experts. The Early Show took on this issue with its week-long HeartScore series, ending on Friday with a visit from a noted cardiologist, whose life goal is to prevent heart attacks.
Dr. Matthew Devane is board certified in cardiology, nuclear cardiology and internal medicine. He is a recognized expert in heart disease prevention and is helping pioneer state-of-the-art cardiac diagnostic testing efforts in Northern California.
Devane is also the author of a new book "Heart Smart," and visited the broadcast to focus on the many myths and misconceptions that surround heart disease.
Myth: Heart disease only affects older people
Heart disease, in fact, starts at a very young age, according to Devane. He says he sees blockages in people in their teens and 20s and more heart attacks than ever in people in their 30s. This is why it's so important that the disease be identified in the earlier stages. So, in your 30s and 40s, you should ask your doctor to check your cholesterol and blood pressure levels, which, if too high, can be early indicators or a problem.
Myth: Since I am thin and I exercise, I am not at risk for a heart attack
Devane says it doesn't matter what shape you are or what shape you are in, you can still be at risk for heart disease. Even thin people who exercise can have a heart attack, which is another reason why it's so important to speak with your doctor about the disease even if you don't fit the typical profile.
Myth: Symptoms will warn me that a heart attack is coming
This is a very big mistake, says Devane. If you wait for the symptoms, which include the common crushing pain in your chest or shortness of breath, it is often too late. One out of three people who have a heart attack die suddenly, before they ever get help. And about 80 percent of women never have the crushing feeling in their chest. By the time most people begin to feel the symptoms, they already have a blocked artery.
Myth: Heart disease doesn't really affect women
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women older than 40, especially after menopause. In the United States, more than 500,000 women a year will die from the disease. There are some differences, though, in how heart disease affects men and women. For instance, women often get sick later in life than men.
Myth: A low-fat diet is all I need to work on for heart health
Fat has become a four letter word in the English language. The fact is that there are some fats that are good for you, like the ones found in fish, nuts and avocados. What you want to avoid is trans fats. They are found in products like cookies and potato chips.
To read an excerpt from "Heart Smart," click here.