JENISE TORRES OF LEE HEALTH, DONNA MOFFATT, DR. JOANNA ROCK, AND RHONDA PARKINSON
The color red is commonly associated with Valentine’s Day in February. More recently, red has become a symbol for Women’s Heart Health, which was the subject for the Socialites’ February program.
Many of the members were dressed in red to welcome the guest speaker Dr. Joan Rock, a cardiologist with Lee Health, who addressed the issue of heart disease as it affects women. Dr. Rock explained that even though the percentage of death from heart disease is the same for women as men, early studies focused on men. Women’s heart problems were sometimes missed or misdiagnosed because their symptoms did not always match men’s. Dr. Rock said one of the differences is that while men’s hearts are stronger on the pumping cycle, for women it is the relaxing cycle, which is harder to detect. She also said that Lee Health is working toward acquiring more advanced diagnostic equipment and establishing a Women’s Heart Institute.
Dr. Rock listed the high-risk factors that contribute to heart disease: smoking, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. She added family history as a contributor. Dr. Rock emphasized the importance for women to monitor their blood pressure, A1C numbers, cholesterol levels, and to be sure primary care physicians include heart health among their concerns. She also said healthy diets and exercise are important to maintain heart health.
The meeting closed following a brief business meeting. President Donna Moffatt complimented Sue McCoy for the Valentine themed table decorations, and Rhonda Parkinson announced the March program will be the fashion show by Anthony’s. Kathleen Colletti reminded members of the 72-hour luncheon cancellation policy, Cheryl Dawes introduced new members, and Bev Groft reported this month’s member contribution to the All Souls outreach program totaled $435.
The next Socialites luncheon has been rescheduled for March 24.
