Blacks Are 2x More Likely To Die From Heart Disease And Stroke
You have the power to prevent!
According to CDC:
Nearly 1 in 3 deaths in the US each year is caused by heart disease and stroke. At least 200,000 of these deaths could have been prevented through changes in health habits, such as stopping smoking, more physical activity, and less salt in the diet; community changes to create healthier living spaces, such as safe places to exercise and smoke-free areas; and managing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
More people will have access to health care coverage and preventive care through the Affordable Care Act. Health care providers should talk with their patients about healthy habits at every visit and follow patients’ progress. Many deaths from heart disease and stroke can be prevented.
What do we know about preventable deaths from heart disease and stroke? Your chances of dying from heart disease and stroke depend on many things.
Age: While the number of preventable deaths has declined in people ages 65-74, it has remained virtually unchanged in people under 65.
Race/ethnicity: Blacks are nearly twice as likely as whites to die early from heart disease and stroke.
Sex: Men have the highest risk of death across all races and ethnic groups. Black men are most at risk.
Location: Risk of preventable death from heart disease and stroke varies by county, even within the same state.
Have a conversation with your health care provider about the ABCS of heart health.
Get help to stop smoking. If you don’t smoke, don’t start.
Try going for a brisk 10-minute walk, 3 times a day, 5 days a week.
Eat a heart-healthy diet with more fruits and vegetables and less sodium and trans fat.
Know the signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke, and call 9-1-1 right away if you are experiencing them.
Please take care of yourselves!!!