Q How common is it for women to have a heart attack?

Ms Smith: After the age of 60, heart attacks start to be as common in women as men, but women don't perceive themselves as being at risk. The symptoms are also different than men's, so women may not recognize them for what they are. Some actually learn during a routine checkup that they have had a "silent" heart attack - long after it's happened.

Q Are women as likely as men to take advantage of a cardiac rehab program?

Ms Smith: Most of our patients are over 70, so you would expect an equal number of men and women, but, in fact, less than one fourth of our patients are women. This means that men are three times as likely as women to take the time to take care of themselves. Many insist on maintaining the same schedule as before their heart attack and continue to put others first. Women need to accept that their health must come first.

Q Why is cardiac rehab so important?

Ms Smith: It gets patients used to the routine of exercising and gives them confidence that it's safe, because someone is monitoring them at all times. Patients also learn about their condition, their medications, and any recommended nutrition and lifestyle changes. Rehab also provides a support network of people in the same situation who can understand and encourage them. These are people who care about and check in with each other.

Q Does rehab make a big difference in the quality of life after a heart attack?

Ms Smith: Patients who complete a cardiac rehab program are much less likely to have another heart attack, because they understand and are prepared to maintain important lifestyle changes. And the support from their new social network is just as important to a full recovery.

Christine Smith, MA, is an Exercise Physiologist at the Wellness Center at Doylestown Hospital, where Phase III cardiac rehabilitation programs are offered.