Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States accounting for more than 25% of every single death in the country. It is astoundingly high, especially for a disease that can be managed by simple factors like diet and exercise.
February is American Heart Month so there is no better time to remind your self of the simple things you can do to maintain a healthy heart: check your blood pressure, schedule your annual physical, and know what services are available for those with serious or end-stage heart disease, so you can share the information in your community.
This February, have a Heart to Heart with the people who matter most to you. Talk about your heart and how you can give it some extra care and attention. Remember that even making minor changes now can lead to many health benefits later!
Myths and Facts
What every woman should know.
MYTH
Cancer is the leading killer of American women.
FACT
Heart disease kills more women than any other disease. Almost 5 time as many women die from heart attacks alone each year than die from breast cancer.
MYTH
Heart disease affects mostly men.
FACT
Every year since 1984, deaths from heart disease in women have surpassed that of men. In the year after a heart attack, women are 28% more likely to die than men.
MYTH
Heart disease affects mostly men.
FACT
Every year since 1984, deaths from heart disease in women have surpassed that of men. In the year after a heart attack, women are 28% more likely to die than men.
MYTH
Heart disease affects mostly older women
FACT
Women as young as 30 can be at risk. The rate of sudden cardiac death among women in their 30s and 40s increased 21% during the 1990s.
MYTH
male and female heart disease patients are treated the same way.
FACT
Female heart patients are less likely than their male heart patients to receive beta blockers, statins and ACE inhibitors, and ever after a cardiac event they are also less likely to receive aspirin.
Source: American Heart Association
Gym Membership Not Needed
Sometimes, some small adjustments to your existing routines can benefit your health and fitness.
Know the Risks; Know the Facts
Resources for a Heart-Healthy Life
The American Heart Association provides extensive information about heart health at their website www.heart.org, including the following links:
Healthy Eating
Stress Management
Fitness Basics
And health topics including: