Heart disease is America’s number one killer. Many people don’t realize that there are steps you can take to improve your heart health before it’s too late.
February is recognized as National Heart Health Month and individuals are encouraged to take necessary precautions to protect their hearts.
In order to see a healthier heart, individuals can improve their diet to include healthier foods and increase physical activity. It’s also important to monitor your weight, cholesterol and blood sugar. Quitting smoking can also significantly cut back on risks.
According to AHA Senior Director of Communications Tim Harms, every year the American Heart Association funds more than $130 million of research nationally, including more than $5 million that goes to Indiana universities.
He reports that thanks to advancements in treatment, mortality rates from heart disease have dropped more than 50 percent in the last 30 years. However, 1 in 3 deaths are still the result of heart disease so the organization continues to research more life-saving methods and technology.