WHAT HAPPENED The highly publicized heart attack and death of Tim Russert, former moderator of NBC's _Meet the Press_, spurred a discussion among doctors and patients about cardiology

and its limitations. Russert was overweight but generally health-conscious, so the news of his death resonated with many Americans, and raised questions about whether they're doing

enough to minimize heart risks. WHAT THE COMMENTATORS SAID SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEK Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives. SUBSCRIBE

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blood pressure and cholesterol, rode an exercise bike, had yearly tests, "and was dutifully trying to lose weight. But he died of a heart attack anyway." Actually, Russert did

exhibit some early warning signs, said Delthia Ricks in California's Monterey County _Herald_. He had "elevated blood sugar, a thickened heart muscle," extensive clogged

arteries, and possibly hypertension. The "age-old mantra—don't smoke, do exercise, maintain a healthful weight, and eat well"—is still good advice. But it's no guarantee

of good health. And don't forget stress, said Brittney Johnson in _The Washington Post_. Stress is a "common concern" in the discussion of heart disease, but there are ways to

alleviate stress. If you're a busy person like Russert was, "schedule leisure time into" your calendar the same way you would plan an important meeting. Get enough sleep,

avoid overeating, and take care of yourself. A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com