Beating nearly 115,000 times per day, the human heart is one of the most vital organs we need to survive. Yet, we often overlook the health and well-being of our hearts until it's too late.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. In fact, one person dies every 36 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease.

There are different forms of heart disease that can affect anyone at any time. Heart disease does not discriminate based on race, sex, age or religion.

Studies have shown that key risk factors for heart disease include:

• High Blood Pressure

• High Cholesterol

• Diabetes

• Obesity

• Poor Diet

• Smoking

• Excessive Alcohol Use

There is no cure for heart disease, but it can be managed. From food and fitness to mental stability, keeping a healthy balance is the solution to living and managing heart disease.

Here are some safety tips for better heart health.

• Eat well balanced meals & control portion sizes.

• Exercise regularly. 

• Limit your alcohol consumption.

• Get enough sleep.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Manage your stress.

Family history also plays an important role when it comes to your potential risk for heart disease. While you can't avoid genetics, it is possible to avoid additional roadblocks. Sharing your family history with your doctor will allow you to create a health plan early on and focus on managing healthy heart habits.

Union Health can help you identify heart risks sooner in order to improve your health through healthier lifestyles. Together, we can reduce and prevent heart disease and stroke. To learn more about heart-related services offered at Union Health, go to myunionhealth.org, click on the Find Medical Services tab and then click on Heart & Vascular care.

Always remember to Play it Safe!

This important safety message is brought to you by your Union Hospital Emergency Trauma Team.