Cardiovascular disease affects millions of people and is considered to be the leading cause of death and disability in the world. Each year, 17.5 million people die as a result of the disease. On September 29, 2018, it is time to bring awareness to heart health and celebrate World Heart Day.

This year, the World Heart Federation requests that everyone make a simple promise: “for MY HEART, for YOUR HEART, for ALL OUR HEARTS.” The mission is to have everyone pledge to eat healthier, exercise more and encourage our children to be active, and stop smoking or encourage others to stop. According to the World Heart Federation, “80% of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease could be avoided if the four main risk factors – tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and harmful use of alcohol – are controlled.”

Unfortunately, cardiovascular disease contributes to poverty and places a heavy burden on those particularly from low- and middle-income countries because of the high out-of-pocket costs attributed to the treatment. Good heart health should be important for everyone, so learning about the disease and encouraging one another to practice healthy habits is vital.

Just by making these small, simple changes, we can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Not only that, but making healthier decisions also improves quality of life and helps set a good example for future generations.

The best way to celebrate World Heart Day is to take a step back and evaluate your own heart health. Begin a daily workout, if you haven’t already; even a simple 30-minute walk around the neighborhood is a great start. If you are a smoker, talk with your doctor about a plan to quit that will ensure your success. Evaluate your diet and think of what foods you need to keep out of your grocery cart and which you should add. There are many delicious, heart-healthy foods you can make that the whole family will enjoy. Encourage your family and friends to take part in the celebration and make healthy changes with you, motivating one another along the way.

Having a healthy heart allows us to live longer, better lives, but to achieve this, we must take care of ourselves. If it has been awhile since you have had a checkup on your heart health, visit us today. We will help you understand your risks and direct you towards ways you can help lower your chances of being a victim to cardiovascular disease.