Valentine’s Day may be synonymous with love, but the American Heart Association is urging individuals to reflect on another vital aspect this month – heart health. With heart disease claiming the lives of one in five Americans in 2021, the Association emphasizes the importance of awareness and proactive measures.
Heart Disease as a Leading Cause of Death:
- Heart disease, encompassing various heart conditions, stands as the primary cause of death for both men and women.
- Statistics from 2021 reveal that one in five Americans succumbed to heart-related issues.
Risk Factors Associated with Heart Disease:
- Dr. Timothy Mynes, Medical Director with MedExpress, outlines key risk factors for heart disease.
- Lifestyle choices, age, family history, high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol contribute to the development of heart disease.
- Approximately half of all Americans exhibit at least one of these risk factors, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Recognizing Signs of a Heart Attack:
- Dr. Mynes underscores the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack, emphasizing that these manifestations can vary among individuals.
- Chest pain is not universal, especially in women. Pain in the upper body, left arm, stomach, neck, jaw, or back may indicate a cardiac event.
Gender Disparities in Heart Attack Symptoms:
- Women’s heart attack symptoms are often misdiagnosed due to differences in presentation.
- Understanding that symptoms may manifest differently in women, such as pain in non-chest areas, is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Yearly Check-ups for Prevention:
- Dr. Mynes recommends regular yearly check-ups with healthcare providers as a proactive measure.
- Annual check-ups facilitate early detection of risk factors, enabling timely interventions to prevent heart-related issues.
Conclusion:
As couples celebrate love on Valentine’s Day, the American Heart Association encourages individuals to extend that love to themselves by prioritizing heart health. The insights provided by Dr. Mynes underscore the role of lifestyle choices, awareness of symptoms, and regular medical check-ups in reducing the prevalence of heart disease. By fostering a culture of heart health, individuals can take significant steps toward a healthier and more vibrant life.
