Heart Health Awareness
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for about 1 in every 5 deaths.
The total cost of heart disease in the United States exceeds $200 billion annually, including healthcare services, medications, and lost productivity.
The good news? Many heart problems are preventable with healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical care!
Know Your Risk Factors
Certain factors increase your risk for heart disease, including:
High Blood Pressure: Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure can damage the vessels around the heart and to all organs, increasing your risk for heart attack, stroke, and other organ damage including kidney disease.
High Cholesterol: Too much LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) can lead to plaque buildup on the walls of the arteries and ultimately blockage.
Diabetes: High blood sugar leads to damage of the blood vessels and contributes to the accumulation of plaque over time.
Family History: Genetics play a role in your risk for heart disease, so understanding your birth family’s medical history is important.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor diet (particularly foods that are high in fat and sugar), physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption all increase your risk, both collectively and individually.
Steps to a Healthier Heart
How can we reduce our risk for heart disease?
Eat Smart: Focus on a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in nuts and fish. Limit processed foods, red meat, sugary drinks, and excessive salt.
Move More: Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Even small changes (such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator) can make a big difference.
Don’t Smoke: Given that people who smoke are 2-4 times more likely to develop heart disease, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart!
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart and health. Consider relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing.
Get Regular Check-Ups: Routine screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes can catch potential issues early.
Prevention is powerful. By making small, consistent changes to your lifestyle and staying proactive about your health, you can lower your risk of heart disease and enjoy a stronger, healthier life for years to come!