[ssmith]

I work as a Cardiology nurse soooo I am biased. Once the damage to your heart has been done ...you, for the most part, cannot undo it!!! Remember that build up in your arteries goes everywhere....not just your heart....could be your carotids that supply blood flow to the brain, could be your legs or your kidneys.

Our American diet is not condusive to good artery health. Yes, the absolute best approach is a good diet and to do it early and exercise; but even then, you may have bad genes which contribute to the build-up of plaque in your arteries.

The number one killer in America, by far, over all diseases is heart disease!!!! and that includes women!!!!

Yes, this med must be carefully monitored....I, for one, can't take statins due to rising of liver enzymes.

As many Cardiologists say " we are saving lives one non-compliant patient at a time" Sad but true....everyone is bitter once the damage to the heart occurs ....or the STROKE! but little think it will happen to them. Another thing I hear is that the individual doesn't care if they die since they have had a good time but remember....not everyone dies right away. Also not everyone wants to live with a debilitating stroke.

Ok, now I will get off of my high horse!!! Just care about you all and want you to enjoy a healthy life as long as you can!