February is American Heart Month

Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. (Photo submitted)

February is the perfect time to focus on the heart, and not just because of Valentine’s Day. Since 1964, the month of February has been designated as American Heart Month.

Established by a request from Congress and signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, American Heart Month is designed to raise awareness regarding the ways in which a healthy lifestyle can help prevent heart disease and strokes.

During this month you will see fundraising events and heart awareness events being held throughout the County. I encourage you to attend or participate in these events and activities in any way you can – whether by donating to help fight heart disease or by learning more about how to prevent it.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 700,000 Americans died from heart disease in 2020. Heart disease is the leading causes of death in the United States – and not just for men. There is a common myth that heart disease is mainly an issue for men, but it is also the number one killer of women. This includes people of most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Many of these deaths may have been avoided with a healthy lifestyle – the key is people having the information necessary to help them make healthy lifestyle choices.

Heart disease, also known as coronary heart disease, is caused when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become clogged with plaque. Plaque accumulates overtime when the lining of an artery is damaged by high blood pressure, smoking, or high cholesterol.

Because heart disease affects everyone, it is important to understand the risk factors. Some of those risk factors are high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, alcohol, stress, obesity, and improper diet.

Additionally, knowing the early warning signs of a heart attack is crucial, as that information may help you know when to seek medical assistance for yourself or a loved one. The signs of a heart attack can vary depending on gender, but common symptoms are chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in arms and legs, swollen ankles, nausea, unusual fatigue, and fast or irregular heartbeat.

Fortunately, there are many organizations that are helping increase awareness of heart disease by providing information to the public. One of the leading sponsors of American Heart Month is the American Heart Association. The American Heart Association is the largest non-profit funding source for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease research in the United States. Their goal is to secure funding for scientific research for cardiovascular disease, health, education programs, training and community services, and programs regarding medical advice and financial assistance.

The American Heart Association website provides programs that can help you make the right decisions regarding your health.

One initiative that the American Heart Association has established is called Go Red for Women, which brings attention to the fact that heart attacks do not just happen to men. It stresses the importance of women being informed about heart health and getting regular checkups, and it provides information about warnings signs.

Sometimes our lifestyle makes it difficult to eat healthy every night. In most families, both parents work and have hectic daily schedules between work and taking care of their children and home. Some nights it is easier to get fast food for dinner. The same can be said for single people who may work long hours and lack the energy and motivation to cook for themselves. If this sounds familiar, it is important to know that even small, practical lifestyle changes can make a tremendous difference in your health and the health of your family! So, consider making 2023 the year you cook at home more often; incorporate healthier food options such as fruits, vegetables, fish, chicken, and other heart-healthy foods into your diet; make time for exercise such as a daily walk or other low-impact exercise; and prioritize your health by scheduling (and going for) your annual physical and any other recommended annual medical visits.

There are programs designed to help you make healthier choices and develop healthier habits. Middlesex County’s Community Health Page is a great place to start. There you will find information on programs that will help you get started ― or continue on ― the path to a healthier lifestyle for yourself and your family. Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/find-programs-and-resources/community-health-team for more information. Of course, it is always recommended that you speak with your doctor about the lifestyle changes that may work best for you and your loved ones.

Wishing you good health in the upcoming year!