Mega Doctor News
Heart disease affects approximately 60% of U.S. adults, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),with an estimated 121.5 million adults living with from heart disease, which refers to several types of cardiovascular conditions that affect the heart and how it functions.
But that’s not all… One person succumbs to cardiovascular issues every 33 seconds in the United States, per the CDC, making heart disease the leading cause of death in the nation.
While typically associated with the elderly, the number of heart disease cases among younger adults is increasing at a staggering rate in the U.S., per the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, with the rise in chronic health conditions like hypertension, diabetes and obesity – the most common risk factors for cardiovascular issues – to blame for the uptick.
In 2023, the number of young adults with diabetes increased from 3% to 4.1%, while obesity rates rose from 32.7% to 40.9%, leading to increased rates of heart failure and heart attacks among people under 40.
Intended to raise awareness on the risks and effects of heart disease, February marks American Heart Month, an initiative that encourages Americans of all ages to prioritize heart health.
So, to help Rio Grande Valley residents keep their cardiovascular health in check and take steps to prevent heart disease in their families, South Texas Health System Heart offers the following suggestions for leading a heart healthy lifestyle:
Choose a healthy eating plan: What you eat can decrease your risk of heart disease, so pick foods low in saturated fat, trans fat and sodium. It’s also important to incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet and limit your salt and sugar intake.
Be physically active: Regular physical activity at least two days a week can make a significant difference by helping reduce the stress hormones that tend to put an extra burden on the heart. Studies have also shown that people who exercise regularly are less likely to suffer a sudden heart attack or other life-threatening cardiac event.
Avoid alcohol & quit smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can take a significant toll on the heartand increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart failure. Avoiding alcohol and smoking can improve your blood pressure, as well as your overall heart rate.
Manage your stress: Chronic stress, anxiety and anger can raise your risk of heart disease. A sunny outlook can beas good for your heart as it is for your mood.
Know your numbers: Keeping your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides in check is important for good heart health.
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, so manage your weight through diet and exercise. Losing 10-15% of your body weight can lead to significant health improvements, including better blood pressure, improved heart health and reduced risk of diabetes.
Get enough sleep: Sleep apnea and insomnia are linked to heart disease, with adults who sleep fewer than 7 hours a night more likely to have health problems, per the CDC, which can contribute to cardiovascular issues. Sufficient sleep is vital to overall health.
While American Heart Month serves to encourage, promote and raise awareness for heart health, it’s important to continuously practice a heart healthy lifestyle throughout the year.
As one of the first freestanding cardiology and cardiovascular hospitals in the nation, STHS Heart is committed to delivering high-quality cardiovascular care to residents of the Rio Grande Valley. For more information on STHS Heart the comprehensive cardiovascular services provided, visit https://www.southtexashealthsystemheart.com.
