9Health Topic

9Health Topic of the Month for February 2012:

Heart Health

Did you know that heart disease is the #1 killer in America? Heart disease – also called cardiovascular disease – is a term used to describe several problems related to the buildup of plaque in the walls of the heart’s arteries. As the plaque builds up, the arteries narrow, making it more difficult for blood to flow. This is creates the risk for a heart attack or stroke. Two other types of heart disease include heart failure, irregular heartbeat, and problems with the heart valves.

In the past, heart disease and heart attacks have been mostly associated with men. Studies and research have historically been done on men to provide a better understanding; however, awareness is on the rise for women after studies have shown that more women die from heart disease than any other disease. A women’s risk begins to rise around age 55, but knowledge of heart disease is incredibly important for younger women in order to put preventable tactics into place.

Fortunately, there are many things you can do reduce your chances of getting heart disease. You should:

• Know your blood pressure and keep it under control
• Exercise regularly
• Don't smoke
• Get tested for diabetes and if you have it, keep it under control
• Know your cholesterol and triglyceride levels and keep them under control
• Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables
• Maintain a healthy weight

Friday, February 3^rd is National Wear Red Day where Americans will wear red to show their support for women’s heart health. Go Red For Women encourages awareness of the issue and will hopefully create action to save lives. Below you will find more information about National Wear Red Day and other helpful material regarding heart disease, whether you’re a woman or a man.

Getting the care and information you need, when you need it, is important. Everyone should be able to get quality care without barriers. Working together, we can move Colorado closer to that common-sense goal. Staying healthy and having access to health care is one way to keep your heart healthy. Do you know someone who has suffered from heart disease? Do you think stress is another contributor to cardiovascular disease? Tell us your thoughts. Join the conversation on 9Health Fair’s Facebook page. 

About Heart Disease:

• What is Cardiovascular Disease?
• Learn About Heart Disease
• Adult Congenital Heart Disease
• Risk Factors for Women

General Information:

• Reduce Your Chances
• Reduce Risk for Women
• Prevention

Heart Disease in Women:

• In Your 20's
• In Your 30's
• In Your 40's
• In Your 50's
• In Your 60's and Beyond
• Heart Disease Facts in Women
• Signs of Heart Attack and Stroke
• How Heart Disease Affects Women

Heart Disease in Men:

• Preventing the Top 7 Threats
• Heart Disease Facts in Men

Heart Disease in Children:

• Heart Disease in Kids

Tools and Facts:

• Heart Attack Risk Assessment Tool
• Physical Activity and Heart Disease I.Q.
• Quick Facts
• Lifestyle Guidelines for Women: What you Need to Know
• Heart Health Tools
• Tools in Spanish

Local Resources:

• Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention
  
• Quick Facts

9NEWS On-Air Spot:

Coming Soon!

GENERAL HEALTH RESOURCES 

From the National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus Service:

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Access the current issue of Medline Plus the Magazine from the National Institutes of Health.

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