Did you know the #1 killer of Americans is cardiovascular disease? Not only is it the most fatal disease in the nation, but it is also the most common cause of death in Indiana and Monroe County.
Since 1964, individuals and organizations across the country have banded together for American Heart Month which brings awareness to this dangerous disease and the ways it can be combatted. In most cases, heart disease is largely preventable. With healthy choices, regular physical activity, and routine visits to a physician, individuals can greatly lessen their chances of a cardiac event.
Learn more about heart disease and how BHF is working to impact it below.
Risk factors for heart disease can include:
- age
- family history
- high blood pressure
- high blood cholesterol
- smoking
- diabetes
- obesity
- unhealthy diet
- lack of physical activity
- excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
Signs an individual is having a cardiac event:
- Heart attack symptoms: chest discomfort, discomfort in the upper body, shortness of breath, nausea, breaking out in a cold sweat, lightheadedness
- Stroke symptoms: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty
- Cardiac arrest symptoms: sudden loss of responsiveness, irregular breathing
Call 9-1-1 immediately if someone shows these symptoms.
How to prevent heart disease:
- Choose healthy foods and drinks: avoid foods high in saturated fat and trans fats, eat foods high in fiber, limit sugar, salt, alcohol, and caffeine consumption
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get regular physical activity
- Don’t smoke
- Visit your doctor on a regular basis
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How BHF has impacted cardiovascular health:
We know heart health is an important factor in living a stronger, more vibrant life. That’s why in 2018 BHF was proud to make a gift to the YMCA of Monroe County for their Cardiac Rehabilitation program. Cardiac Rehab is designed for those who have had a coronary artery bypass, heart attack, PTCA, or are at risk for heart disease. The Cardiac Rehab program can help individuals gradually and safely regain or build their level of fitness and is a large component in the recovery process.
More recently, BHF made a significant grant to triple the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market food vouchers for both senior and WIC (Women, Infant, and Children) populations. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation states that healthy food incentive programs are an evidenced-based method to increase both healthy food access and consumption, leading to increased prevention and better management of chronic diseases, such as heart disease.
SOURCES
American Heart Association
https://www.heart.org/en/around-the-aha/february-marks-56th-consecutive-american-heart-month
https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-attack-and-stroke-symptoms
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/american_heart_month.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/about.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/prevention.htm
Monroe County Government
https://www.co.monroe.in.us/egov/documents/1532305275_35693.pdf
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