For women of all ages - Winthrop-University Hospital’s Institute for Heart Care will hold a free program, “Heart Disease: An Equal Opportunity Killer,” on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 7:00 PM. The event will be held at Winthrop’s Community Outreach Center, 101 Mineola Boulevard, at the corner of Second Street in Mineola. It will focus on strategies that will help women protect their cardiovascular health.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. However, research has shown that women of all ages can modify, change or treat their risk factors, and significantly lower their chances of developing diseases of the heart or blood vessels.

The program will include talks from a panel of experts from Winthrop’s Divisions of Cardiology, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, and Pulmonary Medicine. Topics will include the relationship between sleep and heart health, the possible significance of leg pains, and other assorted issues related to cardiovascular health. Speakers include: Kevin Marzo, MD, Chief of the Division of Cardiology; Alisha Oropallo, MD, Attending Vascular Surgeon; and Qanta Ahmed, MD, Attending Physician, Winthrop’s Sleep Disorder Center.

“We developed this initiative in order to enlighten women in the community about cardiovascular health. Women of all ages need to empower themselves when it comes to their heart-health. Whether you are raising or about to begin a family, going through menopause or facing the challenges that come with retirement, understanding ways to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle and reduce risk for future cardiovascular disease is paramount, “ explained Barbara George EdD, MSN, RN, Cardiology Clinical Coordinator, Women’s Cardiovascular Wellness & Prevention Center at Winthrop. “This promises to be an informative evening that can make a difference in a woman’s well-being,” she added.

Admission is free, but space is limited. Reservations are required. To reserve your space, please call (516) 663-8300.