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Glossary
M
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) |
a diagnostic test that uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create detailed images of the arteries and surrounding tissues |
| Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) |
A diagnostic test in which a powerful magnetic field and radio waves are used to create detailed 3-D images of body tissue, such as the heart or brain. |
| Medical history |
A catalogue of a person's symptoms, present health conditions, past illnesses, medications, and risk factors |
| Medical Intervention |
Any type of medical treatment. |
| Mediterranean diet |
A healthy diet that consists mainly of whole grains, fruits, nuts, vegetables, and fish; lowers your risk of heart disease and stroke |
| Menopause |
When a woman stops having her period permanently, either due to age or the surgical removal of the uterus and/or ovaries. The average age of menopause is 51. Menopause before the age of 40 is considered premature or early menopause. |
| Metabolic equivalents (MET) |
A unit for measuring exercise intensity. One MET is the amount of effort it takes to sit quietly. |
| Metabolic rate |
The rate at which the body burns calories. It varies among individuals. |
| Metabolic syndrome |
The clustering of specific risk factors in an individual; three or more of the following: higher than normal blood sugar, blood pressure, or triglyceride levels, a large waistline, and low HDL (good) cholesterol. |
| Methionine |
An amino acid that is a precursor to homocysteine. |
| Microalbuminuria |
An increase in the excretion of a protein called albumin in the urine. |
| Microgram |
One thousandth of a gram; used to describe the amount of estrogen in birth control pills |
| Microvascular |
Very small blood vessels. |
| Microvascular dysfunction |
When very small blood vessels narrow or doesn't work properly, restricting blood flow to the heart. |
| Micturition |
The medical term used for urination. |
