From an interview with
Dr. John Patton
McLeod Cardiology Associates – Florence

Every minute in America, a woman dies of a heart attack, stroke, or another form of cardiovascular disease. One out of every three women experience some form of this disease, and yet, according to the American Heart Association, most of those cases are preventable if you lead a heart healthy lifestyle.

Some of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, body weight, and high blood sugar. Work with your primary care physician to make sure they are all within a healthy range. If you have a family history of heart disease, it’s important to share that information with your doctor as well.

Heart disease does not play favorites. Women of all ages can be at risk, and it is important to manage your risk factors starting early. Prevention is key to good heart health, and there are several ways you can reduce your risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD).

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet: A low-fat, high-fiber diet is recommended, which should include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (5 portions a day) and whole grains. You should limit the amount of salt you eat to no more than 6 grams (about 1 teaspoonful) a day, as too much salt will increase your blood pressure.
• Being more physically active: Regular exercise will make your heart and blood circulatory system more efficient, lower your cholesterol level, and also keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. The heart is a muscle, and like any other muscle, it benefits from exercise.
• Give up smoking and reduce alcohol consumption: Smoking is a major risk factor for developing atherosclerosis. It also causes the majority of cases of coronary thrombosis in people under the age of 50. Meanwhile, binge drinking increases your risk for heart attack.

Knowing the facts about heart disease—as well as the signs, symptoms and risk factors—can help you take steps to protect your health and seek proper treatment if you need it. To learn more, speak with a cardiologist near you.