Happy Valentine’s Day! Whether you celebrate today’s holiday or not, you have a good reason to wear red: it’s American Heart Month!
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; one in every three deaths is from heart disease and stroke, equal to 2,200 deaths per day (Center for Disease Control). And more women die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined (American Heart Association).
The goal of American Heart Month is to make people aware of heart disease and stroke, and to offer ways people can reduce their risk. Here are some prevention steps you can take:
- Get up and get active by being physically active for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.
- Know your ABCS:
- Ask your doctor if you should take an Aspirin every day.
- Find out if you have high Blood pressure or Cholesterol, and if you do, get effective treatment.
- If you Smoke, get help to quit.
- Make your calories count by eating a heart-healthy diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and low in sodium and trans fat.
- Take control of your heart health by following your doctor’s prescription instructions.
Other Useful Links:
Heart Health 2010 – Healthy Email Service