Los @ MindSay

In a recent story reported by ABC7 Eyewitness News, there are three new studies on heart health that reveal clues doctors may have previously overlooked, which indicate a seemingly healthy person may be headed towards heart disease or stroke. These clues, according to researchers, can be found in mammograms, blood-sugar tests, and common daytime dozing. Los Angeles Cardiologist, Dr. Mason H. Weiss, MD of Apex Cardiology said in the interview, "It would seem that those three different findings would have nothing to do with each other, but in fact all these describe things that have an association with heart disease or stroke."

In the first study, viewing the mammograms of 200 stroke patients, it was found that 56 percent of them had calcium deposits in breast tissue. This lead researchers to the conclusion that women with artery buildup in their mammograms a have a greater risk for heart disease and stroke. "The radiologists typically don't report that because it's so-called a 'non-finding' for breast cancer, but it may be a significant finding for women who have early heart disease," said Dr. Weiss.

In the second study, 1,700 patients in their mid-60s were measured for blood-sugar and insulin levels after fasting. Those with higher scores had twice the risk of stroke over the next seven years compared to those with lower scores. The blood sugar test used in the study, called homeostasis model assessment (HOMA), measures a ratio of blood sugar and insulin levels. High scores can indicate a patient is borderline diabetic. Diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

A third study documented the daytime dozing patterns of 2,000 people in their mid-70s. Researchers found the odds of having a stroke were nearly 5 times greater among heavy dozers compared to those who rarely nodded off. Doctors say the heavy dozers likely suffered from sleep apnea or other sleep disorders that triggered dangerous fluctuations in their blood pressure. "I think what they're trying to do over here is focus on the stroke risk, and the fact is there is some simple things that are out there that they're glossing over that we should be paying more attention to these things," said Dr. Weiss.

Dr. Weiss suggests that people take advantage of the latest technology which has been helping find heart disease earlier in patients, and even saving lives in some cases. A CT scan can help detect early heart disease. The newest technology at Apex Cardiology, the 64 slice cardiovascular CT features the industry's fastest speed and highest resolution scanner. Don't become another statistic, be aware of the risks you may be facing for heart disease and ask your doctor for more information on scheduling a heart scan. It could very well save your life.

Not really a shocking story, but I admire this one. If you're a celebrity watcher like me, you know how many celebrities undergo Los Angeles plastic surgery on a regular basis, some changes good, some changes not so good. Just like me, you saw Pamela Anderson's breasts go from big, to normal, to big again. You've seen Cher looking scarier and scarier. You've seen Ashley Simpson go from goofy, to glamorous. You've seen Priscilla Presley go from gorgeous to ghastly. And then there are the countless Beverly Hills facelift surgeries. Joan Rivers vs. Sharon Osborne? No contest. The truth of the matter is, as a normal person myself, I feel enough pressure being thin and beautiful away from the spotlight, so I can imagine how much more the pressure is for those in the spotlight. But if I chose to change my look, celebrity or not, I wouldn't want to look like I've had work done.

I would of, course, admit to it if asked, but I wouldn't want it to be the first thing someone thinks when they see me, "whoa, she's had work done!" So that's why I admire all those celebrities who chose not to overdo it when getting cosmetic surgery. Take Kelly Rowland of singing group Destiny's Child for example. She recently spoke publicly about her Los Angeles breast augmentation, saying she's proud of them, they make her "feel complete." The petite and talented singer, previously a size A cup, spoke of her frustrations not being able to fill out her clothes. Now, at a size B cup she's much happier, realizing that she "didn't want to have double Ds and be a little bitty size 2 - that would look nuts!" Now why can't more celebrities follow in her footsteps? Finding a Los Angeles or Beverly Hills Cosmetic Surgeon isn't all that difficult. Finding a good one who will tell you the truth; now that's a bit trickier. Some advice from Kelly Rowland: "It is a decision I made for myself. I like it, and that's all that counts. For young people: Think about it before you just jump off and do something (you may regret later)." Wise words Kelly, you go girl.

In Los Angeles there is a whirlwind of cosmetic procedures that celebrities go through on a monthly basis. Non-surgical cosmetic procedures like Los Angeles Botox and Restylane injections have become increasingly popular in the last year, especially because of the amazingly quick results with little to no downtime. Celebrities going to an event like the Oscars who need a quick fix for small lines or wrinkles will request Botox injections prior to the event. The use of Botox for lines and wrinkles in the face is nothing new. In fact, the use of Botox has become so common, it's even used as a verb, or lumped into other common pampering procedures. For example, "let's treat ourselves to a little mani, pedi, Botox." However, new uses for Botox are now being requested from celebrities and regulars alike.

Believe it or not, Los Angeles Plastic Surgery patients are often men. Gone are the days when men were unconcerned about their looks, now more and more men are turning to the magic of Cosmetic Surgery. Any Los Angeles cosmetic surgeon will tell you that quite a few cosmetic surgery procedures are popular among men.

Here is my top 5 or Fave 5 (Whats your take? Let me know!)

1. Chin Implants : This one is a nobrainer. Who can resist the Adonis with a strong chin? You may be having drooping shoulders or a paunch, but a strong jaw line, now you are talking.. Imagine walking down Rodeo Drive with a nonchalant air, with your newly designed chin attracting furtive (and appreciative) glances.
2. Tummy Tuck : I can almost hear the murmurs – but its true! Los Angeles Abdominoplasty experts keep mentioning men guzzling beers and hopping on tummy tuck expresses.
3. Liposuction : This one is a given, and usually done with tummy tuck. In fact, there is a rumor that one Los Angeles Liposuction Expert has brought on a new 2 for 1 deal (You guessed it, one combination Tummy Tuck and Liposuction and another combo free (for the wife, that is!)
4. Rhinoplasty : Remember the Greek Gods? Last we saw them as statues. Prepare for an avalanche of Greek Godlike looks, with aquiline noses and firm bodies invading the streets of LA. Your nose causing you embarrassment? Head for Los Angeles Rhinoplasty surgeons for the cure.

5.      Breast Reduction : Don’t tell me you need an explanation for this one.