This fat resides in the waist, leading to the "apple-shaped" body type known to be more prone to stroke and heart problems."Large waist size has been shown to be a predictor of stroke under 65 .
"Women have unique risk factors such as pregnancy, birth control and hormone replacement," she said.
Stroke Worthy of Women's Worry
"Most women think of stroke as an old woman's disease and breast cancer as a young woman's disease," Bottinger said. "Two times as many women die of stroke than breast cancer. Still, 10 times as many women will die of cardiovascular disease than breast cancer.
"Both women and general practitioners underestimate women's heart problems," doctors feel men are at higher risk."
So how can women protect themselves? It appears that the single most important thing women can do is to watch their weight.
Women should "keep their weight in line," Bottinger said.
"Keep that waist size less than 35 inches! Low-cal and low saturated fat, low cholesterol diet. Exercise daily for 30 minutes," she said.
Women in this age group must also be diligent in keeping their regular appointments with their doctors, Towfighi said.
"It's really important to pay attention to the risk factors at an earlier age," she said. "Starting in the 30s, we suggest regular checkups with your physician. We recommend lifestyle changes like a heart-healthy diet and exercise 30 minutes a day." Olive oil is a must use it avoids strokes,