South Carolina (Wach) – February is the month of the American heart, and the public health department of South Carolina (DPH) reminds everyone to take measures to a healthier heart.
Heart disease is the main cause of death in the United States, with 702,880 deaths in 2022.
In South Carolina, it was also the main cause of death, with 12,014 deaths by heart disease that year.
The main risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking.
Almost 75% of South Carolina adults have one or more of these risk factors.
Women are particularly affected by heart disease, with almost 75% of women aged 20 to 39 with at least one modifiable risk factor.
The first Friday in February, on February 7 of this year, is the national day of wear clothes.
This day is part of the “Go Red For Women” campaign to raise awareness of heart disease and brain vascular accidents in women, highlighting additional risks related to pregnancy and menopause.
“Each woman may not undergo pregnancy during her life; However, each woman will know menopause, “said Kristian Myers, director of the Diabetes and heart disease management section. “Although there is more to discover the impact of menopause on the health of a woman, we know that this stage of unique life puts us at an increased risk of developing heart disease.”
There are also health disparities, African-Americans faced with higher risks of heart disease, in particular ischemic heart disease, compared to whites.
In 2021, deaths by heart disease in African-Americans in South Carolina were 27% higher than in white residents.
Cardiac diseases are mainly avoidable by making healthier choices.
Advice to hear healthy include:
- Limit alcohol consumption and stop smoking, vaping and using tobacco products.
- Eat a healthy food in fat, cholesterol and salt.
- Maintain an ahealthy weight.
- Move more; At least 30 minutes most days of the week.
- Get regular health screening for cholesterol and blood pressure.
- If you suffer from diabetes, take measures to manage it.
- Take your medication (if applicable) as indicated by your supplier.
DPH encourages everyone to start at least one new healthy habit with the heart this year. For more information, visit DPH heart disease web page Or cdc.gov/heart-distease/.