Before your next mammogram:

Each year, more than 37 million mammograms are performed in the United States.

We have witnessed, some of us first-hand, how the early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer has saved lives. We celebrate those who win the fight!

But, did you know that heart disease kills 6X more women than ALL of the cancers combined ... including breast cancer?

For most women, they learn they have heart disease only after they have suffered a cardiac event or, worse, they family learns they had this largely preventable disease only after they died.

Recent studies have shown how digital mammography could help us diagnose heart disease in women sooner.

Here's what you need to know!

A study released in 2016 posed the question that if calcium deposits are discovered in breast arteries could that woman also be at risk of heart disease?

Of the 292 women included in this study, 70% of the women who had breast arterial calcification also had coronary arterial calcification.

Coronary arterial calcification is considered to be an early sign of cardiovascular disease.

While basic heart health screenings will assess our risk for heart disease, it does not confirm whether or not we have it. Most heart attacks occur when there is only a 50% blockage. A coronary artery calcium scan is the most effective way to detect heart disease at its earliest stages.

Just like breast cancer, or any chronic disease, the key to survival is early detection, early diagnosis and early intervention. Awareness and education is vital!

Could digital mammography help us identify more women who are at risk of heart attack sooner?

How many lives could we save?

Read more here.

Heart Health Tips for Women

• Know your numbers

• Make a plan to manage your risk factors

• If you are over 40 with at least 1 risk factor for heart disease, consider a Coronary Artery Calcium Scan

• Eat real food, limit sugar & sodium, prefer water

• Get at least 20 minutes of moderate exercise most days

• Strive for 7-8 hours of sleep

• Learn to handle stress, anxiety and don't be afraid to seek help for depression

• Recognize the warning signs for heart attack & stroke