Reduce Risk Factors for Heart Disease Year-Round - Archived

Lexington, Ky. (January 17, 2019) – The new year is underway and CHI Saint Joseph Health is encouraging community members to keep their hearts healthy in 2019 by taking steps to reduce their risk for heart disease. While February marks American Heart Month, a time when awareness is raised about heart health, it’s important to keep your heart healthy year-round.

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States, killing nearly 610,000 people each year, which accounts for 1 in every 4 deaths,” said Suzanne Morton, MD, CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group - Cardiology. “It’s important to understand the warning signs of a heart attack and ways that you can improve your overall health by reducing your risk for heart disease.”

Kentucky ranks second in the nation for heart disease, which includes a range of ailments, like coronary artery disease, heart arrhythmias, blood vessel diseases and congenital heart defects. Heart disease is often referred to as cardiovascular disease and includes conditions involving blocked or narrowed blood vessels that can lead to chest pain, stroke or a heart attack.

Heart disease symptoms depend on the type of heart disease you have, but common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, dizziness or fatigue. While family history and genetics can contribute to a person’s heart health, there are also a number of modifiable risk factors for heart disease, including having high blood pressure, a poor diet, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, being obese, smoking, stress, poor hygiene and lack of exercise. Managing these risks can significantly decrease the risk of heart disease.

“Diet and exercise are extremely important, and can positively affect risk factors for heart disease, like high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol and diabetes,” said Morton. “By keeping your heart healthy, you can help lower your risk for heart attack, cardiovascular disease or stroke. These conditions can be life-altering or even deadly, and making small changes in your daily life can make a big difference.”

To help prevent heart disease, work with your physician to determine a proper diet and exercise regimen. To schedule an appointment with a physician, visit https://www.chisaintjosephhealth.org//chi-saint-joseph-health/services/primary-care, or call 859.313.2255.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, don’t wait to see a physician. Dial 911 or seek emergency care right away.

About CHI Saint Joseph Health
CHI Saint Joseph Health, part of Catholic Health Initiatives, is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with 135 locations in 20 counties, including hospitals, physician groups, clinics, primary care centers, specialty institutes and home health agencies. In total, the health system serves patients in 35 counties statewide. CHI Saint Joseph Health is dedicated to building healthier communities by elevating patient care through an integrated physical and behavioral health delivery system. CHI Saint Joseph Health embodies a strong mission and faith-based heritage and works through local partnerships to expand access to care in the communities it serves.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For More Information:
Mary Branham, Director, Communications
P: 859.313.2642
[email protected]