For more than a century, heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the U.S., but many don’t know it. Over half of Americans don’t realize this, according to recent polls. February is Heart Health Month, and in 2022 alone, 700,000 Americans died from heart disease—a staggering one-in-five deaths.
Dr. James O’Keefe, a heart specialist at Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute, explains that most people will eventually face heart disease. While death rates have dropped since the 1950s, recent trends show increased risks due to factors like high blood pressure and obesity, particularly among people of color.
Here are five steps to help lower your risk:
1. **Eat fewer processed foods**—choose whole foods like apples, nuts, fish, or berries instead of sugary cereals or ultra-processed snacks.
2. **Omega 3s from fish or chia seeds** can lower triglycerides and reduce heart disease risk.
3. **Exercise regularly**, aiming for at least 8,000 daily steps or 30–60 minutes of activity each day.
4. **Manage stress** by engaging in physical activities like walking or playing sports, or practices like prayer or meditation.
5. **Get enough sleep**—aim for seven hours to reduce risks of heart disease and other health issues.
If you smoke, quit immediately as it harms your heart and blood vessels. Always consult a doctor before starting any new health routine. By taking these steps, you can work toward lowering your risk of heart disease while making healthier choices.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2025/01/26/heart-disease-top-killer-what-to-know/77900599007