Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, attention is focused on the concerning statistics surrounding it during February, which is American Heart Month. It is alarming to see that the cost is so high that one in five people die from cardiovascular disease every 33 seconds.
CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen offers advice on how to keep your cardiovascular system in good working order regardless of your age, lifestyle, or any underlying medical concerns in an attempt to raise awareness of the crucial role of proactive heart health. Dr. Wen, an adjunct associate professor of emergency medicine at George Washington University, implies the need of implementing heart-healthy behaviors and early intervention.
Nurturing Well-Being Through the Ages
Early 20s: Establishing a Foundation for Heart Health
People are advised to focus on heart health in their early 20s by developing lifestyle choices that will contribute to a longer and healthier life. Dr. Richard Stein, a medical professor at New York University School of Medicine and cardiologist, stresses the important effect of lifestyle decisions on your general well-being.
It becomes essential to establish a connection with a healthcare provider for routine wellness checkups and screenings.
Regular physical activity, refraining from smoking, and avoiding secondhand smoke are highlighted as fundamental measures for cardiovascular well-being.
Recognizing that sedentary habits and poor dietary choices contribute to long-term health risks, Dr. Stein underscores the need to adopt an active lifestyle and a nutritious diet early on.
30s: Balancing Heart Health Amidst Family and Career Obligations
Including heart-healthy living becomes crucial when individuals in their 30s manage the challenging terrain of family and professional commitments. Crucial tactics include encouraging families to participate in physically demanding activities, keeping track of family medical history, and effectively managing stress.
The effects of stress on heart health are recognized and the value of stress-reduction strategies like deep breathing exercises and volunteering is promoted.
Dr. Stein highlights that integrating heart-healthy habits into everyday activities improves quality of life in general as well as physical well-being.
40s: Strengthening Heart Health through Lifestyle Choices
Making wise lifestyle adjustments is recommended as a proactive strategy for those in their 40s who may not have given heart health priority before. Dr. Stein offers advice on the importance of controlling weight with a diet that is heart-healthy, frequent exercise, and regular blood sugar testing.
Additionally, addressing sleep-related issues, such as snoring, is highlighted. Sleep apnea, if untreated, can contribute to heart disease and stroke. Awareness of these factors and gradual lifestyle adjustments are promoted to build a foundation for enduring heart health.
50s and Beyond: Heightened Vigilance and Disease Management
People who are 50 years of age and older should pay more attention to heart health. It becomes crucial to stress the need of maintaining a healthy diet, being aware of the warning signals of a heart attack and stroke, and following doctor’s orders for treating pre-existing diseases.
Special attention is directed toward managing health numbers closely, including blood pressure and cholesterol. Regular screenings, coupled with lifestyle modifications, are presented as indispensable tools in mitigating the heightened risk of heart disease associated with aging.