Feb 03 2025 32 mins 9
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, fueled by the growing obesity epidemic and complex cardiometabolic issues that often fall through the cracks between primary care and specialists. The simple truth? Many women aren’t getting the support they need to protect their hearts.
Today’s guest, Dr. Simin Lee, is here to change that. A Harvard-trained cardiologist and behavioral scientist, she’s paving the way for a new kind of care with Systole Health—a first-of-its-kind virtual clinic focused entirely on women’s cardiovascular health. Through innovative group care sessions, Systole Health combines expert medical guidance with the power of community, empowering women with the knowledge, support, and personalized care plans they need to thrive.
In this episode, Dr. Lee explores how GLP-1 medications are transforming treatment for cardiometabolic health, why you need to ask about testing for lipoprotein(a), and how menopause-related hormonal shifts increase heart risks and what women can do to stay ahead of them. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation about empowering women to take control of their heart health and bridging the gaps in traditional care.
References
https://www.systolehealth.com/
Connect with Dr. Lee:
Audio Stamps
00:36 - Today’s guest, cardiologist Dr. Simin Lee shares her journey into cardiometabolic health, her focus on women’s heart health, and the creation of Systole, a virtual clinic using group care to empower women.
08:10 - We learn how GLP-1 medications improve cardiometabolic and kidney health by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation
22:05 - Dr. Simin Lee explains the cardiometabolic changes during menopause, the potential role of hormone replacement therapy, and why early, informed conversations with doctors are essential.
30:30 - Find out how to connect with Dr. Simon Lee’s practice, Systole Health, which offers virtual women's heart health care through group-based support.
Quotes
“In the early diabetes studies, GLP-1s were showing significant heart health advantages, reducing the rates of myocardial infarctions or heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death in patients with type 2 diabetes, as well as leading to weight loss.” - Dr. Simin Lee
“There's just a special kind of support and encouragement and motivation that can come from a peer as opposed to somebody in a white coat.” - Dr. Simin Lee
“Being proactive really is key. Even if it's just to educate ourselves, inform ourselves, and start thinking about the issues and having those rich conversations with our doctors. It's never too early to start.” - Dr. Simin Lee
The April 30/30 round is open for enrollment now! CLICK HERE to register.
