To pinpoint their personal risks, each patient at the Rush Heart Center for Women undergoes a comprehensive assessment: a lipid profile, body mass index and waist measurement, electrocardiogram, history and physical examination by a cardiologist and interview with a nutritionist.

At the end of their visits, patients learn whether they are at low or high risk for cardiovascular problems. Low-risk patients receive valuable information on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent heart disease down the road. For those patients at high risk, the expertise of Rush University Medical Center is available, which may include lifestyle modifications, medications or some innovative, state-of-the-art procedures.

• How Heart Disease Affects Women
• Are You at Increased Risk for Heart Disease?
• How to Reduce Your Risk