Heart disease is the leading cause of death both in the United States and globally, claiming an estimated 17.9 million lives each year, according to the World Health Organization. Heart disease along with stroke, which is the fifth leading cause of death, claimed more lives in 2021 in the U.S. than all forms of cancer and chronic lower respiratory disease combined.

Yet, according to the American Heart Association, more than half of American adults are not aware of that fact.

In conjunction with American Heart Month, we encourage our readers to make healthy choices, working with doctors and health care professionals to reduce their risks.

The CDC recommends:

• Schedule a visit with a doctor to talk about heart health. Regular checkups are an important part of health management, even if you don’t think you’re sick. Talk with your doctor and set goals for improving heart health. Be honest with them about your health and habits and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

• Add exercise to your daily routine. If you don’t currently exercise, start small. Walk 15 minutes a day a few times a week. After a couple of weeks, bump it up to 30 minutes a day a few times a week.

• Quit smoking. If you currently smoke, quitting can cut your risk for heart disease and stroke. Kicking the smoking habit, like starting an exercise routine, is something that’s done one step at a time.

• Eat healthy. Eating healthy is one of the surest steps you can take to heart health. Cook heart-healthy meals at home at least three times a week and reduce the sodium content of your recipes.

• Take prescribed medication. Talk with your doctor about high blood pressure and cholesterol medications. Take any prescribed medications on time as directed. If any side effects develop, contact your doctor for help.

Staying healthy, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, is much easier than “getting healthy” and overcoming a lifetime of bad habits.

And don’t forget — talk to family members and learn your family’s history with the disease.

It could save your life.

We encourage our readers to develop healthy habits and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Remember the adage, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

CNHI Wire Service