February is Heart Health Month—which raises awareness about heart disease and how people can prevent it. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 695,000 Americans die every year—that’s 1 in every 5 deaths! Protecting our heart is one of the most important things we can do—if we don’t, we put ourselves at a higher risk for heart disease. On a happier note, heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions.
Symptoms of heart disease are not to be taken lightly. If you experience major warning signs, seek medical attention right away. Warnings signs include the following:
Protecting your heart is the highest priority for preventing heart disease. Besides lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, the CDC suggests taking the following measures:
You can help spread heart health awareness through leading by example—improve your diet and help encourage others to stay physically active as well. Together, you can drastically reduce your risk, and those around you, from experiencing life-threatening heart conditions. Don’t forget to continue the celebration on National Wear Red Day! Help bring attention to the facts about women and heart disease. Encourage everyone in your community to wear red on February 5, 2016.