February is American Heart Month, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is urging residents to prioritize heart health. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. and South Carolina, with over 12,000 deaths attributed to heart disease in the state in 2022. Major risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking, with almost 75% of adults in South Carolina having at least one of these risk factors.
Women are particularly affected by heart disease, with significant risks related to pregnancy and menopause. National Wear Red Day on the first Friday of February aims to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke in women.
Health disparities are also a concern, with African Americans facing higher risks of heart disease, especially ischemic heart disease. Heart disease deaths among African Americans in South Carolina were 27% higher than among White residents in 2021.
Preventative measures for heart health include limiting alcohol use, quitting smoking, adopting a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, getting regular health screenings, managing diabetes if applicable, and taking prescribed medication as directed by healthcare providers.
DPH encourages individuals to start at least one new heart-healthy habit this year. For more information on heart disease prevention, visit DPH’s Heart Disease webpage or cdc.gov/heart-disease/. Let’s all make a commitment to prioritize our heart health this February and throughout the year.
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