February marks American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health and the prevention of heart disease. As the leading cause of death in many regions, including the United States, heart disease emphasizes the need for proactive measures and access to quality care. Fortunately, many forms of heart disease are preventable, and small, consistent lifestyle changes can significantly enhance long-term health.
According to Alison L. Bailey, M.D., vice chief of Cardiology at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, safeguarding your heart begins with integrating simple activities into daily routines. “Anything you do that moves your body counts,” Bailey stated, highlighting that both aerobic exercise and resistance training are effective strategies for reducing cardiovascular risk.
Embracing a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle
Nutrition plays a crucial role in preventing heart disease. A heart-healthy eating pattern includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. It is equally important to limit saturated fats and highly processed foods, as these can negatively affect cholesterol levels, weight, and blood pressure.
Bailey also underscored the significance of two often neglected factors: sleep and tobacco exposure. Adults should strive for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, as inadequate sleep can lead to elevated blood pressure, diabetes, and an increased risk of heart disease. In terms of tobacco, Bailey pointed out that there is no safe level of exposure.
Understanding key health metrics is essential for maintaining cardiovascular well-being. Optimal blood pressure should be below 120/80 mmHg, while levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol should be minimized. Additionally, fasting blood sugar levels should remain under 100 mg/dL to prevent prediabetes. Keeping a body mass index (BMI) below 25 and waist measurements within a healthy range further lowers cardiovascular risk.
Addressing Women’s Unique Cardiovascular Risks
Women face distinct challenges regarding heart health. Statistics indicate that one in three women will succumb to heart disease, with nearly 45 percent currently living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Pregnancy can also unearth previously hidden risks, as between 10-20 percent of women experience cardiovascular issues during this time.
This American Heart Month, the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute encourages individuals to take meaningful steps toward enhancing their heart health. This could involve increasing physical activity, improving dietary habits, monitoring blood pressure, or eliminating tobacco use.
By prioritizing prevention, early detection, and advanced treatment, WVU Medicine provides top-tier cardiovascular care to communities across the region. For more information on how to protect your heart, visit WVUMedicine.org/Heart.