February is American Heart Month, a time to show yourself some love by learning about your risks for heart disease and stroke and staying “heart healthy” for yourself and your loved ones.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD)—including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure—is the number 1 killer of women and men in the United States. It is a leading cause of disability, preventing Americans from working and enjoying family activities. CVD costs the United States over $300 billion each year, including the cost of health care services, medications, and lost productivity.
An estimated 80 percent of CVD deaths could be prevented through healthier habits, healthier living spaces, and better management of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
As you begin your journey to better heart health that can last a lifetime, keep these things in mind:
- Try not to become overwhelmed. Every step brings you closer to a healthier heart, and every healthy choice makes a difference!
- Partner up. The journey is more fun—and often more successful—when you have company. Ask friends and family to join you.
- Don’t get discouraged. You may not be able to take all of the steps at one time. Get a good night’s sleep—also important for a healthy heart—and do what you can tomorrow.
- Reward yourself. Find fun things to do to decrease your stress. Round up some colleagues for a lunchtime walk, join a singing group, or have a healthy dinner with your family or friends.
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Need more inspiration? The “28 Days to a Healthier Heart” tips (cdc.gov/heartdisease) can inspire you throughout February and all year long. Visit the American Heart Association at heart.org or follow Million Hearts® on Facebook and Twitter for even more ways to protect your heart and live a longer, healthier life. Million Hearts® is a national initiative to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes.
Together, we all can prevent and manage heart disease, one step at a time.
— Excerpted from cdc.gov/features/heartmonth