Each February many of us are reminded to focus on our heart health as American Heart Month sheds light on all things related to the heart. Love is truly in the air all of February and our hearts require a lot of love when trying to maintain its health. Heart disease is a general term that covers many heart problems. One of the most commonly known heart diseases is Coronary Artery Disease, which occurs when the arteries connecting to the heart become blocked by plaque build-up.
This year the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention promoted the Million Hearts® and CDC Foundation’s “Live to the Beat” campaign, which aims to encourage African American adults ages 35 to 54 (one of the most impacted groups by cardiovascular disease) to lower their risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Researchers have found that African American adults are 2X’s more at risk for CVD than Caucasian adults. In addition, women under the age of 50 have been found to be twice as likely to die of a heart attack than men of the same age. Women may even experience different heart attack symptoms than men, such as back, arm, neck, or shoulder pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and shortness of breath. However, heart disease can impact anyone of any age, sex, and ethnicity. In fact, greater than 600,000 Americans die from heart disease every year. Heart disease is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” as approximately one in five heart attacks occurs without the person knowing they experienced one.
Individuals can take small steps to lowering their risk of developing heart diseases by lowering blood pressure, controlling cholesterol and blood glucose levels, increasing physical activity, implementing healthier eating habits, reducing stress, maintaining regular doctor visits and appropriate health screenings, and avoiding habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol and soda consumption.
Celebrate your heart by staying active, eating healthy, staying hydrated with water, monitoring your weight, and educating yourself on heart disease so that you can help prevent heart problems.
If you believe you might be at risk for heart disease, speak with your doctor and ask for possible screening tests such as a cholesterol test. Be sure to examine your health habits and risks and do your best to improve your heart health.
This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.
References:
https://nationaltoday.com/american-heart-month/
