Most women know they should eat a healthy diet and commit to exercise to prevent heart disease — but many don’t realize just how big a threat heart disease is to their health.
Heart disease claims the lives of more women than men every year, according to Go Red for Women. Consider these other surprising facts:
- Heart disease is the number one cause of death for men and women in the United States, according to the American Heart Association.
- Go Red for Women estimates that 90 percent of American women have at least one risk factor for heart disease.
Not sure where your heart disease risk lies? Learn your four numbers: blood pressure, blood cholesterol, blood sugar and body mass index. Your weight, blood pressure, and whether or not you have or are at risk for diabetes or high cholesterol can reveal a lot about the health of your heart.
According to the American Heart Association, simple changes can help you take better care of your heart and reduce your risk for heart disease. These include exercising at least 30 minutes a day most days of the week, eating more heart-healthy foods such as whole grains, limiting saturated and trans fats, quitting smoking, and reducing stress levels.
Talk to your doctor about what your numbers mean and discuss any lifestyle changes that may help keep you heart healthy. If you need assistance in finding a doctor who meets your health needs, visit PorterPhysicianGroup.com or call (844) PPG‑DOCS (774-3627).
