Since 1963, February has been recognized as American Heart Month to urge Americans to join the battle against these diseases and empower them to make healthy choices. The American Heart Association strives to increase awareness during February and raise funds for research and education.
Many of us know someone who has suffered from heart disease, including stroke, which is our nation’s #1 killer. Heart disease – also called cardiovascular disease – is a term used to describe several problems relating to plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries and the narrowing of arteries that results. This buildup makes it more difficult for blood to flow and creates a risk for heart attack or stroke.
Heart disease and stroke affects all of our lives, but we can all play a role in ending it. Prevention starts with you. Protect yourself and your loved ones from heart disease and stroke by understanding the risks and taking action to prevent heart disease.
For more information about cardiovascular diseases and what you can do to join the battle against heart disease, please visit https://www.heart.org.