If you had the opportunity to prevent a life-threatening illness, would you do it? If you knew the steps to take, simple yet powerful steps, to ensure longevity and heart health, would you make it a priority? New numbers just put out by the Centers for Disease Control regarding heart disease and stroke have shed light upon the fact that many Americans are not taking their heart health seriously.
The CDC states that in 2016 there were 2.2 million hospitalizations and 415,000 deaths resulting in a staggering $327 billion dollars and approximately 80% of these cases could have been prevented with simple lifestyle changes. The good news is that there are things we can do each and every day to reduce the risk of a heart-related event and save lives, according to Dr. Anne Schuchat. Here at Champion Home Health Care, we provide a wide array of home health care services in Melbourne, FL and we have seen the impact heart-related diseases have on individuals and their families. In light of this new information from the CDC, let us take a closer look at things you can do on a daily basis to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death from heart disease and stroke.
Medication Issues
Your physician prescribes a medication to you because it is necessary for your health. For cardiovascular problems, statins and aspirin are often given. However, many Americans simply choose to ignore or incorrectly use their prescription medication to their detriment. According to the CDC, 9 million people are not taking aspirin as prescribed by their doctors. Aspirin assists with the prevention of heart attacks because it thins the blood. For those who need it, it can help prevent blockages within the arteries that supply blood to the heart. It is an easy over-the-counter purchase and can be a powerful prevention. Aspirin therapy can be a lifesaving thing for those who need it yet many choose not to take it. If you have been prescribed a daily aspirin by your physician, take it. It could save your life.
Statins are prescribed to help lower cholesterol yet 39 million of us do not take them according to the direction provided by our doctors. If you have a statin prescription, use it. If you are not sure how to correctly use your prescription, contact your doctor today.
Physical Activity
An exercise regimen is incredibly important for the prevention of heart disease and stroke yet 71 million Americans remain inactive. This is a powerful and easy step to help reduce your risk for a heart disease and you do not have to spend excessive amounts of time in the gym or training for a distance event.
The American Heart Association notes that exercise is anything that gets you moving and allows your body to burn calories. Think of activities you enjoy such as walking or swimming. Find something you love and will stick to. Moderate-intensive activity for at least 30 minutes a day or totaling 150 minutes a week is the sweet spot. Another option is to choose a vigorous activity for 25 minutes for 3 days during the week. Combine either of these with 2 strength training days and you will do your body a great service.
