Take Control Of Your Health During American Heart Month

February is the perfect time to focus on cardiovascular health because it is American Heart Month. We often hear about the risks of heart disease, but many of us don’t realize just how prevalent it is. In fact, it remains the number one cause of death among both men and women in the United States. 

One of the core messages highlighted during American Heart Month is the importance of regular screenings. Annual check-ups with your doctor are essential for early detection and management and can significantly reduce the risk of serious illness. Please keep reading to learn more about steps you can take to prevent heart disease and how you can show support during American Heart Month.  

What Is The Purpose Of American Heart Month?

While heart disease prevention is something that deserves year-round attention, having a dedicated time period promotes awareness regarding certain aspects of the disease. The American Heart Association, for example, uses this month to educate the public on:

1. The Prevalence Of Heart Disease

• Again, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., responsible for around 702,880 deaths in 2022. 
• Heart disease affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

2. Risk Factors for Heart Disease

There are certain conditions or habits that can increase a person’s risk for developing heart disease. Many of these are preventable or can be reversed:

• High blood pressure – A major contributor to heart attacks and strokes. Even moderately high blood pressure can damage arteries over time and make them more susceptible to plaque build up, which restricts blood flow. High blood pressure also causes the heart to pump harder. Eventually, the heart muscle can thicken to the point where it is not receiving enough oxygen. If untreated, this can lead to chest pain and, eventually, heart failure. 
• High cholesterol – Leads to plaque buildup in arteries. American Heart Month offers dietary resources that inform individuals which foods to avoid and which to include to avoid levels that interfere with proper blood flow to the heart. 
• Smoking – Cigarettes contain nicotine, which is a stimulant (vapes have it too). Stimulants raise blood pressure which, we have discussed, is a major risk factor for heart disease. In addition, the chemicals in cigarettes can damage artery walls, making them more susceptible to plaque build-up. American Heart Month advocates offer resources for smoking cessation. 
• Obesity – Puts extra strain on the heart and increases the likelihood of other risk factors.
• Type 2 Diabetes – People with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to be overweight. High blood glucose levels also attach to certain proteins in the blood, which reduces free oxygen levels. Finally, that glucose can also damage artery walls, which increases the likelihood of plaque build-up. American Heart Month educates the public on the symptoms of type 2 diabetes and its link to heart disease so individuals can get prompt treatment. 
• Poor diet – There is a new diet trend every week, it seems. Many of these diets are not based in science, and some are even dangerous. American Heart Month focuses on spreading accurate information regarding heart healthy foods. The American Heart Association has comprehensive lists of foods you can include in each meal. When shopping for groceries, you can scan the label for the AHA Certification icon:

• Lack of exercise – Sedentary lifestyles contribute to heart disease risk by causing weight gain and reducing circulation. American Heart Month promotes an active lifestyle with at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise, or 75 minutes of intense exercise (preferably spread out). Exercise is also important for mental health (see below). 
• Stress and mental health – Chronic stress and depression can negatively impact heart health. Depression often coincides with poor eating habits, while chronic stress can cause elevated cortisol levels in the blood. Cortisol increases blood pressure and can cause irregular heart beat (arrhythmia). 

3. The Importance Of Regular Screening

• In addition to adopting healthy diet and lifestyle habits, organizations use American Heart Month to underscore the importance of regular testing. Annual screenings should never be skipped, especially if you have known risk factors. 

4. Disparities In Heart Disease Diagnosis And Treatment

• While heart disease affects people of all backgrounds, it affects underserved and minority communities more. American Heart Month discusses the reasons for disparities in heart disease among these communities, including limited access to health care and unequal access to healthy food options. The month is also used to put pressure on public officials and raise funds to reduce these inequalities. 
• American Heart Month also educates the public on the prevalence of heart disease in women. It is still, inaccurately, thought of as being more common in men. But it is the leading cause of death of American women and individuals assigned female at birth. 

5. Fundraising

Fundraising during American Heart Month is used to further cardiovascular research and improve treatment and screening methods. The funds can also go toward providing resources for heart health awareness and for improving access to healthcare.

What Are the Top Heart Health Screenings You Should Be Getting?

We discussed regular screenings as a cornerstone of preventive heart health, but which ones should you be getting? The answer will depend on several factors, including your age and the presence of any risk factors. Some of the most important tests include:

Preventive Screenings For Heart Disease

These tests are ordered as a way to detect and address common risk factors for heart disease so you can prevent it in the first place. 

Blood Pressure Screening

Adults (starting at age 18) should get their blood pressure checked at least once a year or more often if they have a history of hypertension.

Blood Cholesterol Test

This test measures your total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides. A blood test can determine your cholesterol levels and how they impact your heart health. It’s generally recommended to start checking cholesterol at age 20 and for every 4-6 years after that (more often for high-risk individuals).

Blood Glucose Test

The hemoglobin A1C test is used to measure the amount of glucose in your blood. A high number can indicate pre-diabetes or diabetes. If you do not have symptoms or risk factors, your provider will recommend checking your hemoglobin A1C starting at age 45 and every 3 years after can catch diabetes early. If you are overweight, showing signs of type 2 diabetes, or have a family history, you might start this blood test sooner. 

Heart Disease Diagnostic Tests

These tests are ordered if you are showing symptoms of heart disease and can help diagnose the underlying problem. 

Echocardiogram

This ultrasound test provides a detailed image of your heart’s structure and function. It helps diagnose heart conditions like valve disease, heart failure, and abnormalities in heart size or motion. Your doctor might order an echocardiogram if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or heart murmur.

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)

An EKG is a test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It helps detect arrhythmias and other heart conditions. Your doctor might recommend an EKG if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms. If you are healthy and not experiencing any symptoms, there is no reason to have regular EKGs.

Why Is It Important to Test Heart Health Regularly?

Regular screenings allow for early detection of heart-related issues, giving you and your doctor the opportunity to take preventive steps before conditions worsen. Many heart-related conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, often present no symptoms until they lead to serious issues like heart attacks or strokes. Regular testing can help identify potential issues early, so you can implement strategies to address them before they lead to more severe health concerns.

How Can You Be Supportive During American Heart Month?

During American Heart Month, you can support heart health awareness by educating yourself and others about the importance of regular heart health screenings. Encouraging friends and family to schedule a check-up, reduce heart disease risk factors, and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly impact their long-term health.

Primary Care Screenings in Destin 

At The Crane Center, Dr. Tuel offers personalized concierge care, including comprehensive heart health screenings for patients. When you sign up with Dr. Tuel, you’ll receive age-appropriate screenings tailored to your individual health needs, which could include screenings for heart disease, diabetes, cholesterol, and more. This approach allows for early detection and helps ensure that you’re actively managing your heart health, reducing the risk of long-term cardiovascular problems. For this American Heart Month, take the first step toward heart health by scheduling a screening at The Crane Center, getting active, and sharing your knowledge with others. Together we can make heart disease prevention a priority every month!