According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease
- is the leading cause of death for men and women,
- costs the United States almost $109 billion dollars a year in healthcare costs, prescriptions, and lost workplace productivity.
- and is responsible for approximately one quarter of all deaths every year.
According to the World Health Organization, most heart disease can be prevented through lifestyle changes and addressing risk factors – quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, controlling blood pressure, and controlling cholesterol.
According to the American Heart Association, knowing your numbers will help you know your risk. The following are key numbers to be at a reduced risk for heart disease:
- Cholesterol – total less than 200 mg/dL, LDL less than 160 mg/dL, and HDL 50 mg/dL or higher
- Blood Pressure – less than 120/80.
- BMI – less than 25
- Triglycerides – less than 150 mg/dL
- waist measurement – women (35 inches or less), men (40 inches or less)
It’s clear that we can make meaningful changes to improve our health and reduce our risk of heart disease. For those who are already diagnosed with heart disease, these lifestyle changes and risk management choices are even more critical. Commit to making changes this year to reduce your risk of heart disease and heart attack. Limit fat and salt in your diet. Increase fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Quit using tobacco. Increase your daily activity. See your medical professional to identify your specific risk for heart disease. And know your numbers. Keeping track of your blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and waist measurement can help you monitor your risk for heart disease. Know the symptoms of a heart attack, and call 911 immediately if you experience any of the following: chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in the jaw and/or down the arm, nausea, cold sweat, and increased anxiety.