February: American Heart Month
America’s number 1 killer is cardiovascular diseases claiming hundreds of thousands of lives each year. In 1963, Congress required the president to proclaim February as American Heart Month to urge the nation to join in the battle against heart diseases.
During American Heart Month, thousands of volunteers visit their neighbors to raise funds for research and education and to pass along information about heart disease and stroke. They renew the commitment to fight cardiovascular disease by increasing public awareness of this deadly disease and by providing prevention information.
The good news is that heart attacks are almost entirely preventable. To protect yourself from heart disease, follow these guidelines:
Maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
Exercise regularly for at least 20 minutes, 3 times a week.
Avoid preventable risk factors such as stress, smoking and high blood pressure.
Educate yourself. Learn the warning signs because early detection saves lives. Half of all heart attack victims wait more than two hours before seeking help. Early detection of symptoms increases the survival rate drastically. If chest discomfort continues for more than two minutes, call emergency medical services immediately.
The following symptoms are warning signs of cardiac arrest:
Pain or discomfort centered in the chest area, which may radiate to left arm, neck, back or jaw
Sweating and shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or fainting
Palpitations or rapid heart beats
During American Heart Month, all Americans should learn more about heart health and how to reduce their risk factors for serious heart conditions. With education and action, we can continue to live longer, healthier lives.
Back To Articles
