Talk with the Doc: Panel of Experts Explore Women’s Heart Health

Every minute, a woman dies from heart disease in the United States — it is the number one killer of women, causing one in three deaths each year, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

Prioritizing heart health awareness for women, Evangelical Community Health and Wellness presents a panel discussion on heart health, warning signs, and prevention on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at 6 pm, in the Miller Conference Center, located in the Main Entrance of Evangelical Community Hospital.

This panel discussion for women about women’s heart health is presented by Melanie Patel, DO, Cardiologist, Heart and Vascular Center of Evangelical; Taryn Wilk, Wellness Educator, Evangelical Community Health and Wellness; and Christina O’Rourke, Clinical Dietitian, Evangelical Community Health and Wellness.

“Heart disease and stroke can affect a woman at any age. It is vital for women to have the conversation, to understand personal risk factors, and to take the time to understand their own family history of cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Patel.

“The goal of this Talk with the Doc is to arm women with the knowledge needed to promote a heart healthy way of life.”

The panel discussion will focus on Dr. Patel’s expertise on heart health management and treatment.  More specifically, Dr. Patel will discuss signs and symptoms of heart attacks in women, which are often more subtle in nature than for men. Wilk will share how to focus on physical and mental well-being through, exercise, stress reduction, and education. Instead of talking about what you should not do, O’Rourke will help participants understand what they should be eating to help improve overall heart health.

This free event is open to the public. Registration is required and can be completed online at www.evanhospital.com/calendar or by calling 570-768-3200.

Evangelical is partnering with the American Heart Association and the Go Red for Women movement during heart month – February 2023. Go Red for women not only advocates for cardiovascular health of all women, but also funds lifesaving research and educates women across the United States and is committed to removing the unique barriers women face to experiencing better health and well-being.