The organ that makes sure your blood is pumping throughout your body could be at risk and you may not even know it. Heart disease, otherwise known as the silent killer, is the leading cause of death in the United States (CDC). Heart disease is not just one specific disease, but a multitude of diseases fit under the umbrella of the term “heart disease”. The most common type of heart disease within the United States is coronary artery disease (CAD).
CAD is caused by a buildup of plaque inside of the lining of larger arteries, causing buildup to partially or totally block blood flow in the large arteries of the heart, leading to a heart attack or stroke. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 365,914 people died from CAD in 2017. CAD can be caused by various unhealthy lifestyle choices including a poor diet, high blood pressure and cholesterol, smoking, and physical inactivity. Engaging in healthy habits such as checking one’s blood pressure and cholesterol, eating healthy foods, and being physically active can help to prevent heart disease. The figure below is a guide on things you can do to maintain a healthy heart and prevent heart disease. We encourage you to not only enforce these teachings within your life but to share with others.
Protect yourself from heart disease by scheduling an appointment at one of our Brighter Beginnings Health Clinics to check your blood pressure and cholesterol today.
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