Friday, February 1, 2013

American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month. Most of us know someone who has had a heart attack or stroke. In Maine, more than 1 of every 4 deaths is from heart disease or stroke.

 
You can help protect yourself and your loved ones from heart disease and stroke by understanding the risks and taking these steps
  • Know your ABCS
    • Ask your doctor if you should take an Aspirin every day
    • Find out if you have high Blood pressure or Cholesterol, if you do, work with your doctor to treat it
    • If you Smoke, get help to quit ~ Maine Tobacco Helpline 1-800-207-1230
  • Be physically active at least 30 minutes on most days
  • Eat more fruits, vegetables and other foods low in sodium and transfat
  • Take medicine as prescribed by your doctor
What else can you do?
 
Heart Month is a great time to learn about the Million Hearts Campaign.
 
Million Hearts is a national campaign with the goal of preventing 1 million heart attacks and strokes over five years.

For more about heart disease and stroke visit http://www.mainehearthealth.org/