This month, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is reminding South Carolinians of the importance of maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle that builds healthy, strong hearts.
February is American Heart Month, a national campaign focused on cardiovascular health. According to DHEC officials, heart disease is the leading cause of death and disability in the United States, with approximately 695,000 Americans dying from heart disease each year.
The disease was the leading cause of death in South Carolina in 2021, with 12,210 people dying from heart disease that year.
“The disparities in heart health across the state are alarming, and we can do more to provide all South Carolinians with access to information, tools, and resources to improve their heart health. We want to do everything we can,” said DHEC's Dr. Edward Simmer. director.
“There are steps each of us can take to improve our heart health, and I encourage all residents to start at least one new heart-healthy habit this year.”
Dr. Martha Gulati, president of the American Society of Preventive Cardiology, recommends a plant-based diet.
A plant-based diet is not vegan and is a selection of foods that contain multiple fruits, plants, and proteins.
“Less than 1% of the U.S. population eats a healthy diet. Also, cutting back on alcohol, eating less salt and processed foods, and getting more sleep all help maintain a smart heart lifestyle.” “It's important to do that,” Dr. Gulati said.
Dr. Gulati also points to the American Heart Association's new risk assessment tool that predicts people's risk over the next 10 or 30 years.
High blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking are major risk factors for heart disease, and nearly three-quarters of South Carolina adults have one or more risk factors.
DHEC recommends the following tips for heart health.
- Stop smoking, vaping, and using tobacco products.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Get regular health checkups for your cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Limit alcohol use.
- Take your medication as directed by your doctor (if applicable).
- Manage your diabetes.
- Eat a healthy diet that is low in fat, cholesterol, and salt.
- Please move more. At least 30 minutes will make a huge difference most days of the week.
“A healthy lifestyle is the key to having a healthy heart,” said Virginie Daguise, director of DHEC's Office of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention.
“These small changes can make a big difference in protecting your heart health, so we encourage everyone to take active steps to minimize or eliminate risk factors. .”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of women in the United States are unaware that heart disease is the leading cause of death among women.
African American South Carolinians are more likely to have risk factors for heart disease, including diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
DHEC officials are encouraging all South Carolinians to start at least one new heart-healthy habit this year.
