Let’s do a Pulse Check: One Way to Take Control of Your Heart Health

Authors: David Mulkey, DNP, RN, CPHQ, CCRN-K, CHSE

Cardiovascular disease is a serious health issue that affects millions of people in the United States and around the world. It's the leading cause of death globally, with about 697,000 people in the United States dying from heart disease in 2020—that’s 1 in every 5 deaths.

Heart disease and stroke can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle. It's important to understand that these risk factors can be modified, and many cases of cardiovascular disease can be prevented through lifestyle changes.

One step that people can take to reduce their risk for cardiovascular disease is to maintain a healthy diet. A diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help control weight, lower cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure. It's also important to limit the intake of unhealthy fats, such as saturated and trans fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Regular physical activity is also important for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aim to get at least 40 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, most days of the week. Regular exercise can help improve heart health, control weight, and lower the risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Another way to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease is to avoid smoking and to limit alcohol consumption. Smoking is a major cause of heart disease, and quitting smoking can significantly lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation, as heavy drinking can increase blood pressure, contribute to obesity, and increase the risk of heart disease.

It's also important to manage stress, as high levels of stress can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. There are many ways to manage stress, including exercise, meditation, and deep breathing. It's also important to get enough sleep, as lack of sleep can contribute to stress and increase the risk of heart disease.

Regular check-ups with your primary care provider are important to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other health markers. If you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, it's important to start monitoring these markers at a young age, as you may be at a higher risk for developing heart disease and stroke.

The American Heart Association launched Pulse Check to help people learn how to manage their conditions, move more, eat healthier, stress less, and work with their health care team. Whether you're looking to learn more about heart disease, or want to take control of your health and reduce your risk, Pulse Check is a free and easy way for you to take the first step in improving your heart health.

So don't wait - take the first step to understand your risk for heart disease and stroke, and get personalized tips and resources to help you improve your heart health. Take control of your heart health today and visit pulsecheck.livetothebeat.org to get started!

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, October 14). Heart disease facts. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Live to the Beat. https://pulsecheck.livetothebeat.org/