Plaque is responsible for many cardiovascular conditions, including cartoid artery disease (CAD), where plaque painlessly builds up in the arteries on the side of the neck, keeping oxygen from reaching the brain and can ultimately lead to a stroke, or worse. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, CAD is the leading cause of death in the US for BOTH men and women with more than half a million Americans dying from the disease each year. Thankfully, many of the risk factors for CAD, including plaque and cholesterol, are easily controllable.

This September, join your local Spirit of Women Hospital as they recognize National Cholesterol Education Month alongside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Take a stand for your health - learn the facts on what YOU can do to lower your risk for a Plaque Attack.

There's no reason to allow plaque to sneak in and take control of your life. Sign on with your local Spirit of Women Hospital TODAY to defend yourself against Plaque Attack for good.

Plaque Attack 101: The Basics

	Plaque is composed of fat, calcium, cholesterol and other substances found in the blood. Plaque can build up in the arteries and when this occurs, the condition is called atherosclerosis.
	Plaque reduces the blood flow to your heart muscles and narrows the arteries.
	Plaque accumulates in your arteries and prevents oxygen from reaching the heart muscle.
	Plaque can also form cracks, causing blood cells called platelets to clump together and form blood clots at the site of the cracks, increasing chances of angina or heart attack.

Make a choice for better health. Visit spiritofwomen.org.

Plaque Attack! is powered by Spirit of Women®, a national network of hospitals and healthcare providers across the United States that ascribe to the highest standards of excellence in women's health, education, and community outreach.

Click on the book links below to stay on top of your health and wellness with recommended reading selections at Amazon.com.
	Quick & Healthy Recipes and Ideas: For people who say they don't have time to cook healthy meals, 3rd Edition by Brenda Ponichtera (Plastic Comb)
	The Chocolate Therapist: A User's Guide to the Extraordinary Health Benefits of Chocolate by Julie Pech (Paperback)
	Reverse Heart Disease Now: Stop Deadly Cardiovascular Plaque Before It's Too Late by M.D., F.A.C.C. Stephen T. Sinatra, James Roberts, and Martin Zucker (Paperback)