American Heart Month is a time to spread awareness of the dangers of
heart disease and stroke, and recommit to strengthening prevention,
improving treatments, and helping all Americans live longer, healthier
lives.
Hundreds of thousands of American families are devastated each year by
heart disease. Even though the risk factors for heart disease can be
prevented or controlled, it is the leading killer of both men and women
in the United States.
And yet, heart disease is preventable. By leading a healthy lifestyle,
Americans can lower their risk of heart disease by as much as 82
percent. This means following a heart healthy eating plan, getting
regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking.
Even if you’re diagnosed with heart disease, there are many steps you
can take to extend your years and increase your quality of life.
Americans with heart disease should eat a low-fat, low-sodium,
nutritious diet, get regular physical activity, take their medication,
and talk to their doctor.
This American Heart Month, talk with your doctor about your personal
risk for heart disease and the steps to take to lower it. By encouraging
all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle, we can reduce the threat of
heart disease and become a healthier country.
For more information on American Heart Month, go to: www.cdc.gov/DHDSP/announcements/american_heart_month.htm.
For more information on women and heart disease, go to: www.hearttruth.gov.
And to read the Presidential proclamation, visit: www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/presidential-proclamation-american-heart-month.
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