Top 5 habits to reduce the risk of today’s top killer
Key Takeaways
Industry Buzz
"In the US, heart disease is the leading cause of death in men women and most racial and ethnic groups. Close to 50% of people above the age of 20 have cardiovascular disease; every year, about 800,000 people have a heart attack in the US… These are very striking numbers [that show] lifestyle modifications, whether that’s diet, exercising, quitting smoking, [are all] really important." — Dr. Khalid Mohammed @the.heart.doc
As healthcare professionals, we are acutely aware that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality in the United States.
February is American Heart Month, making this an opportune time to revisit key lifestyle interventions that can significantly mitigate heart disease risk among our patients. Here are the top-five, evidence-based habits to emphasize in patient care.
@the.heart.doc February is American Heart Month! 🫀 https://newsroom.heart.org/events/february-is-american-heart-month-national-wear-red-day-go-red-for-women-black-history-month-and-more #americanheartmonth #aha #americanheartassociation #cardiovascular #awareness #risks #valentines #blackhistorymonth #ethnic #disparitiesinhealthcare #damarhamlin #cpr #basiclifesupport #nationalwearredday #goredforwomen #heartattack #heartdisease #stroke #cdc #medicine #heart #cardiology #cardio #cardiologist #physician #doctor #do #md #fellowship #fellow #residency #resident #medschool #medicalschool #medstudent #premed #nurse #pa #hospital #cathlab #meded #medicaleducation #patients #clinic ♬ original sound - Dr. Khalid Mohammed
1. Encourage smoking cessation
The detrimental effects of tobacco use on cardiovascular health are well-documented.[] Smoking cessation is one of the most impactful interventions for reducing heart disease risk. Advising patients on cessation strategies and providing resources can lead to substantial improvements in cardiovascular outcomes.
2. Advocate for regular physical activity
Regular physical activity is essential for cardiovascular health. Encouraging patients to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week can help lower blood pressure, improve lipid profiles, and reduce the risk of heart disease.[]
Related: A pill to replace exercise? It's in the works, but how close to 'perfect' can science get it?3. Promote a heart-healthy diet
Dietary choices play a crucial role in cardiovascular risk management. Following a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while limiting saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, and added sugars, can aid in preventing heart disease.[]
Related: 5 surprising foods to help your heart, backed by research@clshealth True or False: Cardiology Edition 🫀 With Cardiologist Dr. Abraham Lee February is #HeartHealthMonth, and Dr. Lee is here to set the record straight on some common heart health myths! Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs. #heart #hearthealth #cardiology #hearthealthmonth #doctor #medical #thisorthat #trend #healthcare #health #cardiologist ♬ Yasashi - CXSPER
4. Support weight management
Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for cardiovascular health.[] Guiding patients toward achieving and sustaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity can help reduce the burden of heart disease.
Related: 4 weight loss myths, debunked5. Monitor and manage relevant levels
Regular monitoring and management of blood pressure and cholesterol levels are essential in preventing cardiovascular disease. Encouraging patients to adhere to prescribed medications and lifestyle modifications can help maintain these parameters within target ranges.
By reinforcing these habits in our clinical practice, we can empower patients to take proactive steps in reducing their risk of heart disease.
Collectively, these lifestyle modifications serve as a cornerstone in the prevention and management of cardiovascular conditions.