February is heart centric for more than just Valentine’s Day, as we begin this month highlighting American Heart Month. Cardiovascular health is so important and there are plenty of ways to bring awareness to related issues this month. We’ve put together some helpful information about heart health to remind you and your loved ones to keep your hearts healthy together.
Spread the word about cardiovascular health and save lives!
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. There are many different causes, and ultimately, most people have been affected by cardiovascular diseases in one form or another, either firsthand or with someone they know. Healthcare professionals can make a great impact by raising awareness about heart health.
Multiple Types of Heart Disease
One person dies every 37 seconds from heart disease. There are several types. The biggest one is coronary artery disease. It affects men and women, and consists of the primary cause of death for most groups in the US.
Coronary Artery Disease
In this state, the arteries have suffered major plaque buildup. This is very harmful to your heart’s function because arteries are the highways that your blood takes to and from the heart to the rest of your body. There are several health problems that can result from this, including heart attack, blood clots, and weaker function of the heart.
Heart Disease and Strokes
A stroke happens when an artery prevents oxygen flow to the brain. It’s related to heart disease in this way, as clogged arteries can cause heart disease as well. This is why it’s so important to focus on everything relating to heart health. Keeping your total body functioning so you can live a longer, more quality life.
How to Address Heart Health
The first step is getting checked out by your healthcare provider and forming a plan. This means you might need a few tests, but they will be worth it. Likely, your plan will include getting enough physical activity, and possibly some changes to what you eat. High blood pressure is also a factor for heart disease. Diet and exercise are key ways to reduce overall risk for heart disease.
A Heartwarming Month for Everyone
There are plenty of great activities and events all month long to help you celebrate American Heart Month. At Supplemental Health Care, we’re taking part in some awareness activities and sharing resources on the blog and social media. You can join in with us with some of these activities.
- Wear Red for Women’s Heart Health: On Feb 7th, we’re encouraging everyone to wear red to show support and to start conversations about women’s heart health for Go Red for Women.
- Raise Awareness on Social: Share this blog post, wear red, and use the hashtags #WearRedDay #HeartHealth #OurHearts to bring a spotlight to heart health.
- Brown Bagging for Heart Health: Bring a heart healthy lunch from home and donate the money you would have spent to go out to lunch to the American Heart Association.
- Volunteer: Check with your local American Heart Association chapter for events or activities in your community.
Show the love this February and celebrate the month with healthy heart awareness. What are you doing for American Heart Month? Share with us in the comments below.
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