Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, however many cases go undiagnosed, according to cardiology expert Dr. Joseph Petro.
As a cardiologist at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, Dr. Petro’s focus is on helping people live longer, healthier lives through expert, compassionate heart care. He was drawn to the specialty, he said, because of the meaningful, long-term relationships he forms with patients and the lasting impact he can have on their well-being.
“Heart disease continues to be the number one cause of death for men and women globally,” he said. “But we have powerful ways to intervene – both in treating it and, importantly, preventing it.”
This can be a challenge for women, however.
“Too often, the signs of heart disease in women go unnoticed or unrecognized,” Dr. Petro explained. “When women understand their risks and listen to their bodies, they can take proactive steps that make a real difference. Prevention starts with awareness.”
Dr. Petro will share insights on these issues in a presentation on Heart Health on Wednesday, February 18 at Canasawacta Country Club, 261 County Road 44 in Norwich. The program will begin at 6 p.m. with social time and the opportunity to order from the menu and bar. The presentation and discussion will follow at 7 p.m.
The talk is part of UHS Chenango Memorial’s Her Health Matters Series – a series of informative conversations about different aspects of women’s health, held monthly at Canasawacta Country Club.
Dr. Petro said he hopes the session will leave attendees feeling empowered.
“There is so much that can be done, not just to address heart disease, but to prevent it,” he said. “Small changes to everyday life, whether it’s portion control or just choosing a healthier diet option, can do so much in the long run.”
According to Dr. Petro, his goal is to leave attendees with a greater understanding and awareness of how heart disease presents in women.
“I want them to be able to recognize the subtle symptoms that often go undiagnosed when women have heart disease,” he said.
The presentation is the fourth in the Her Health Matters series since it launched in late 2025.
“We’re honored to help shine a light on women’s heart health this month,” said Melissa Stagnaro, Director of Development and Engagement at UHS Chenango Memorial.
“That’s what this series is about: connecting women, bringing them information on topics that matter to them, and giving them the opportunity to learn both from our medical professionals and from each other.”
For more information on UHS Chenango Memorial’s Her Health Matters Series, call (607) 337-4510 or via email at cmh.foundation@nyuhs.org. Reservations are accepted but not required.
To view or print event flyer, click here.
UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital is a member of United Health Services, a locally owned not-for-profit 916-bed hospital and health care system serving the Greater Binghamton region from more than 40 locations around New York’s Southern Tier.