5/21/2019
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Posted by Dr. Camille Pearte, Cardiologist
in
Health and Wellness
The more a woman knows about heart disease, the better. Heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths among women each year — more than all cancers combined. Fortunately, we can change that, because 80 percent of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action.
Understanding Your Risk:
Heart disease can happen to anyone, including children. You can be born with it, but most heart disease develops over time due to poor habits such as smoking or eating an unhealthy diet. Having high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes also increases your risk.
Lowering Your Risk:
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, poultry, and fish; avoid having too much salt or sugar
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
- Keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar at a healthy level
- Don’t smoke or use any tobacco products
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations
Your Next Step:
Talk to your doctor about safely reducing your risk and setting goals for a healthier heart. Your doctor may also prescribe medication.
Do you need to find a health care provider or hospital near you? Our Find a Doctor online tool can help. Visit fideliscare.org/findadoctor to get started.