Share the Love this February

Last updated 3 months ago

"Heart disease takes the lives of far too many people in this country, depriving their families and communities of someone they love and care for—a father, a mother, a wife, a friend, a neighbor, a spouse.”
- Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius

February is Heart Month, and unfortunately, most of us know someone who has had heart disease or stroke. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and cardiac patients are the number two users of blood and blood products. One in every three deaths is from heart disease and stroke, equal to 2,200 deaths per day. However, we as a community can fight back against heart disease and stroke.

Here are some Heart Health Tips:

Be physically active for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.
Know your ABCS:
- Ask your doctor if you should take an Aspirin every day.
- Find out if you have high Blood Pressure or Cholesterol, and if you do, get effective treatment.
- If you Smoke, get help to quit.
Make your calories count by eating a heart-healthy diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and low in sodium and trans fat.

If you are eligible to donate blood; you can also roll up your sleeves for local cardiac patients. Those interested in donating blood can do so at one of CBCC’s four donor centers or at a community blood drive www.cbcc.us/donate.