Should You Take a Statin? Expert Insights from Dr. Melissa Tracy EP 97

Take a deep dive into the heart of midlife cardiovascular wellness with this important episode of "Age Better," where host Barbara Hannah Grufferman talks with Dr. Melissa Tracy, a top-tier cardiologist from the RUSH University Medical Center. Dr. Tracy is also the Medical Director of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at RUSH.   Dr. Tracy gives a masterclass on statins - those powerhouse medications at the forefront of cholesterol management and heart disease prevention. But the question that lies at the core of this discussion is one that resonates with millions: Who really needs to be on statins? By tuning in, you’ll get the knowledge and tools you need to make the decision that is right for you.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Understanding Statins: Learn how these powerful medications aid in reducing cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular disease.  Postmenopause and Heart Health: Discover the unique impact of statins for women in midlife.  Shared Decision-Making: The importance of patient-doctor collaboration in deciding if statins are right for you.  Coronary Calcium Score: Uncover how this test is crucial in assessing cardiovascular risks.  Side Effects & Alternatives: Insights into common side effects of statins and who should avoid them, plus a look at natural supplements and other cholesterol management strategies.  Personalized Healthcare: Dr. Tracy emphasizes individualized treatment plans and the role of lifestyle changes alongside statins.  Future-Focused Discussion: A sneak peek into ongoing assessments and evolving conversations in heart health management.    KEY LINKS:  Learn More About Dr. Melissa Tracy: https://doctors.rush.edu/details/1183  What is Cardiac Rehabilitation? https://www.kevinmd.com/2024/02/a-people-first-approach-to-cardiac-rehabilitation.html  USNews+WorldReport Article: https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-03-05/statin-meds-cholesterol-what-you-need-to-know  Alternatives to Statins Referenced During the Episode:   Ezetimibe: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ezetimibe-oral-route/description/drg-20067172  Bempedoic Acid: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bempedoic-acid-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20484223?p=1  PCSK9 inhibitors: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pcsk9-inhibitor#definition  Whether you’re on a statin already, or giving it serious consideration … this episode will help you make the decision that is right for you.  Learn More About ‘Age Better’ Podcast:  Age Better podcast delves into a diverse range of topics, including finance, work, health, fitness, style, makeup, hair, nutrition, travel, relationships, sex, and more.   Listen and Subscribe   To join this adventure, remember to subscribe or follow the "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Yep, you can watch it or just listen!   Share Your Ideas and Questions   Your questions have spurred many episodes, so please keep them coming! Share your ideas for topics and guest suggestions at [e-mail]  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices