Dick Cheney

Re “Dick Cheney, Can’t You Please Step Down,” Commentary, March 8: As a cardiologist, I disagree with Arianna Huffington’s advice to Vice President Dick Cheney. While there is no doubt that Cheney has a serious heart condition, there is no convincing evidence, and it is unlikely, that his most recent episode was related to his job.

The offending clot was treated by a catheter intervention, there was no cardiac damage, and apparently he presently has no symptoms. Certainly Cheney’s probability of having another cardiac event is greater than the risk for an individual who has never had a heart problem. However, most cardiologists now believe that such an event is equally likely to occur when a person is at home, inactive, depressed and/or chomping at the bit as when he or she is involved in an activity that is personally satisfying.

I believe that by remaining on the job, Cheney is sending a message to heart patients that they can and should remain active and involved.

RICHARD L. WILLNER MD

Long Beach

*

Huffington ends her article with “Cheney could send a powerful message about what ultimately matters.” He did send a powerful message. Quitting is no choice! I like that.

JERRY HOUSKA

Reseda

*

What Huffington does not understand about men: For many men, indeed, a position is more important than life.

VLADIMIR BOGORAD

Sherman Oaks

*

What keeps me awake nights is the question: Who will run the country if Cheney’s heart finally gives out?

IRV ELMAN

Pacific Palisades