Reclaim Your Rhythm, February Is American Heart Month
- Posted on: Jan 31 2023
Heart disease is largely preventable. Yet, it is the leading cause of death in America.
February is American Heart Month. Take time this month to learn about ways to maintain a healthy heart and to discuss the risks of heart disease with your loved ones.
What Is American Heart Month?
American Heart Month is an opportune time to raise awareness about the prevalence of heart disease in the United States. It was first celebrated in 1964 when President Lyndon B. Johnson—who had previously suffered a heart attack—issued a proclamation about the importance of raising awareness for heart disease. Since then, American Heart Month has been recognized and celebrated annually in February.
Facts About Heart Disease
Here are some statistics about heart disease in the United States:
- Every 34 seconds, someone in the United States dies from heart disease.
- In 2020, an estimated 697,000 people in the United States died from heart disease. This means one in every 5 deaths was caused by heart disease.
- Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack.
- The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which caused 382,820 deaths in 2020.
- The top risk factors for heart disease are high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking.
Tips for a Healthy Heart
Practicing healthy lifestyle behaviors can help you reduce your risk for heart disease, even if it runs in your family. Follow these tips for a healthy heart:
- Eat heart-healthy foods. Fruits, vegetables, eggs, lean meats, and fatty fish are some of the many foods that contribute to a healthy heart.
- Exercise regularly. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic
- exercise every week and muscle-strengthening exercise at least two days a week.
- Stop smoking. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation treatments such as medications and nicotine replacement if you need help quitting.
- Reduce your alcohol intake. If you do drink alcohol, do so in moderation, which is considered one drink or less a day for women and two drinks or less a day for men.
- Take medications as directed. If you are taking medications for conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, continue taking them as directed by your doctor.
Hunterdon Cardiovascular Associates is committed to providing the highest quality of care in a patient-centered environment. Our offices are conveniently located in Flemington, Clinton, and Bridgewater. We have subspecialty offices available to be sure our patients receive the proper care for their condition. Contact us today at (908) 788-1710 to request an appointment with one of our cardiologists.
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