This Valentine’s Day–wear your heart on your sleeve by helping your best gal pal, girlfriend, wife, mother or significant other see red when it comes to reducing their risks for heart disease.

I was a ‘Lady in Red’ a few days ago, in honor of the American Heart Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s National Wear Red Day (February 7th). A special day designated each year to raise public awareness about the serial ‘silent’ killer of women–heart disease.

In ancient Egypt red was associated with life, health and victory. Today, we connect red to blood, fire, rubies, hearts in love–especially on the 14th. It’s also the color of passion which is what I think about when it comes to taking care of our heart’s health as women. I too, though–see red in anger and frustration–all year long–for as a medical professional, I am reminded daily how more women die every year of cardiovascular disease. Too often it is heartbreaking for me, as I know it can be prevented.

CVD is the number 1 killer of women of middle age–10 times more than breast cancer. And way too many of us ignore this and so yes, I get heated up– when I learn of women who downplay their symptoms and don’t call 911 when they could be having a heart attack. A friend of mine is like so many women in their mid-40’s who despite having high blood pressure –remains in denial.

It doesn’t have to be that way and you don’t have to endure long hours in waiting rooms of doctors offices to get your blood pressure checked and monitor your heart’s life pumping. A visit to your local drugstore or even perhaps even closer to our heart’s — cell phones can provide preventative care.

*One can have blood pressure checked for free at any drugstore.

*Heart Math on the iPhone is a splendid app which measures the heart rate and helps with stressor solutions through guided meditation. Get it here: http://www.heartmath.com

So as you pick up that heart-felt V-Day card and box of chocolates (hopefully, sugar free!) at your local drug store–take the time to honor your heart with simple precautions provided by your pharmacy. Remember to check your I-phone application often and encourage friends and family to do the same. Love your heart and your continued good health will love you back!

In great health,
Dr. Sanda

Contact Dr. Sanda Moldovan to schedule a consultation with an award-winning periodontist and nutritionist.