February marks Heart Month, a crucial time to bring attention to heart disease, which claims more lives annually than all forms of cancer and chronic respiratory disease combined. In the United States, nearly 128 million individuals, approximately 48.6% of the population, live with some form of cardiovascular disease. A staggering statistic reveals that someone dies from cardiovascular disease every 33 seconds.
Cardiovascular disease encompasses various conditions, including coronary artery disease (CAD), strokes, and peripheral arterial disease. These ailments can affect anyone, regardless of age. Autopsy studies of soldiers aged 18 to 22 who died during the Korean War showed significant coronary artery blockages, emphasizing that heart disease can begin at a young age. The primary risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, family history, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity.
High blood pressure affects approximately 47% of U.S. adults but is manageable through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. CAD, the most prevalent form of heart disease, results from narrowed blood vessels supplying the heart muscle, leading to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea. Recognizing these symptoms early can be life-saving, as timely intervention can prevent progression to a heart attack.
Stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is blocked or ruptured, hindering blood flow and oxygen delivery. Symptoms include sudden difficulty in speaking, walking, or understanding, along with numbness in the arms, face, or legs. Quick recognition and treatment can significantly reduce brain damage and improve recovery outcomes.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) involves narrowed arteries that restrict blood flow in limbs, leading to symptoms like leg pain during walking and nonhealing wounds. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice promptly.
While numerous treatments exist to manage cardiovascular disease, preventative measures are vital. Research indicates that engaging in four key activities can lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and PAD by up to 40% without the need for medication.
Four Essential Steps to Heart Health
First, increasing physical activity is critical. The ideal target is 150 minutes of exercise per week, yet only about 24% of U.S. adults currently meet this goal. Activities can range from walking and biking to swimming. Starting with just 5-10 minutes per day and gradually increasing the duration can significantly improve heart health.
Second, adopting a healthier diet can dramatically lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aiming for 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily helps reduce consumption of high-calorie foods. The Mediterranean diet and the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet are particularly effective, emphasizing lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and reduced sodium intake.
Third, quitting smoking is essential. The harmful chemicals in tobacco contribute to heart disease, with smokers facing a 23% increased risk of death from CAD and a 29% increased risk from stroke. Remarkably, individuals who quit smoking for one year can reduce their cardiovascular disease risk by half compared to continuing smokers.
Lastly, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Even a modest weight reduction of 3-5% can lower blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure, thereby reducing cardiovascular disease risk. In some cases, medication may also be necessary to manage cholesterol, diabetes, and blood pressure.
Long-term healthy habits significantly impact overall well-being and are achievable for everyone. Individuals experiencing symptoms related to cardiovascular disease should consult their healthcare provider. For personalized care, appointments can be made with Dr. Eric Fenstad, a board-certified cardiologist at the Ne Ia Shing Cardiovascular Clinic, by calling 320-532-4163.
Crow Wing Energized, an initiative aimed at improving health and wellness in the community, emphasizes collaboration among various organizations to promote healthy living. Their mission is to connect individuals with resources that facilitate healthier choices. For more information, visit CrowWingEnergized.org and stay updated by following them on social media.
