Live Heart Smart: Tips from DPH for a Healthier Lifestyle

February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health. It’s crucial because heart disease is the top cause of death in the U.S. In 2022, it claimed 702,880 lives.

South Carolina mirrors this trend, with 12,014 deaths from heart disease that same year. Factors like obesity, high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking raise the risk of heart problems. Alarmingly, around 75% of adults in South Carolina have at least one of these risk factors.

Women, especially, need to pay attention. Nearly 75% of women aged 20-39 have a modifiable risk factor. The first Friday of February, which falls on February 7 this year, is designated as National Wear Red Day, part of the “Go Red for Women” initiative. This campaign raises awareness about heart disease and stroke among women, emphasizing risks associated with pregnancy and menopause.

Kristian Myers, the Diabetes and Heart Disease Management director, notes, “Every woman may not experience a pregnancy in their lifetime; however, every woman will experience menopause. This unique stage puts us at increased risk for developing heart disease.”

Additionally, heart disease affects different groups disproportionately. For instance, African Americans face a higher risk, particularly for ischemic heart disease. In 2021, heart disease deaths among African Americans in South Carolina were 27% higher than those among White residents.

The good news? Heart disease is largely preventable. Small changes can make a big difference. Here are some straightforward tips for maintaining a healthy heart:

• Cut back on alcohol and quit smoking or using tobacco.
• Adopt a balanced diet low in unhealthy fats, cholesterol, and salt.
• Keep a healthy weight.
• Stay active; aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days.
• Get regular check-ups to monitor cholesterol and blood pressure.
• If you have diabetes, manage it carefully.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for any prescribed medications.

Start by adopting one heart-healthy habit this month. For more information on heart health, you can visit the South Carolina Department of Public Health. Learn more about heart disease at the CDC website.