Heart Disease Prevention — What You Can Do Right Now
Take Charge of Your Health Today
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but did you know that many aspects of heart health are within your control?
Despite genetics and uncontrollable factors like age, sex and family history, lifestyle choices play a pivotal role in heart disease risk. Shockingly, nearly half of all people in the U.S. (48.6 percent) have some type of cardiovascular disease (CVD), contributing to over 900,000 deaths annually. Even more concerning, nearly half of all Americans face at least one major heart disease risk factor, often without realizing it.
Don't wait for symptoms to make a change. Early detection and proactive management of risk factors are vital. Whether it's adopting a healthier diet, incorporating regular physical activity, moderating alcohol intake, or quitting smoking, each step you take is a stride toward a healthier heart.
Awareness is the first step to prevention. Schedule a heart health check today and take the first step toward taking charge of your heart health.
Understanding and Managing Your Risk Factors
Your heart's health isn't solely dictated by unchangeable factors like age, sex or genetics. Instead, it is largely influenced by lifestyle choices within your control. By focusing on diet, physical activity, alcohol intake and smoking habits, you have the power to enhance your life and reduce heart disease risk significantly. Recognizing and acting upon these can drastically improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of heart disease.
- Alcohol and heart disease. Moderation is crucial. Follow the American Heart Association's guidelines—up to two drinks a day for men and one for women (excluding pregnant women and those with certain health conditions). Understanding moderation can help maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle. If you need help to stop drinking, view information about our alcohol prevention and recovery services, or call our Access Center, which is open 24 hours a day at 1-800-300-0628.
- Exercise your way to a healthy heart. Incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly into your routine. Simple activities like walking or taking stairs count toward your goal, boosting your heart health significantly.
- The best diet for heart health. Adopt a balanced diet tailored to support your cardiovascular system. Nutritional choices play a critical role in preventing heart disease, with every meal contributing to your heart's wellness. If you need help figuring out a heart-healthy regimen, contact us.
- Quit smoking for a stronger heart. Quitting smoking can dramatically decrease your heart disease risk, regardless of how long you've smoked. Discover resources and support to help quit, illustrating smoking's impact on heart health and the benefits of cessation. Need help to quit smoking? Learn about our Nicotine and Tobacco Recovery Program, and call 833-795-QUIT (833-795-7848) or request an appointment to get started.
- Stress and heart disease. Manage stress to protect your heart. Continuous stress adversely affects heart health, so exploring stress reduction techniques is vital for maintaining overall well-being.
- Heart screening by age. Regular heart screenings tailored to your life stage can detect early signs of heart disease. Early detection is key to managing and reducing risks. Request an appointment for a heart screening.
- Join our Wellness events. Engage with our community at RWJBarnabas Health Wellness events, designed to educate and inspire towards a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Your journey to a healthier heart starts with awareness and action. Understanding the risk factors and making informed lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your chances of developing heart disease. Explore our resources, participate in our wellness events, and take the first step towards a heart-healthy life today.
Discover Advanced Cardiovascular Care Right Here in New Jersey
At RWJBarnabas Health, we offer unparalleled cardiac care in New Jersey, combining advanced technology with the region's top cardiologists and surgeons for both adults and children.
We are recognized for our award-winning heart transplant program — one of the nation's largest — and as the state leader in pediatric cardiology and TAVR procedures. We deliver comprehensive care focused on your health and wellness. Our team ensures that every patient receives personalized, empathetic support, making us the heart of cardiac care excellence in the tri-state area.
Take the First Step Towards a Heart-Healthy Life Today
See an RWJBarnabas Health cardiologist to learn more about your heart’s health and your cardiac risk. RWJBarnabas Health is at the forefront of cardiovascular care, leading the way with innovative techniques and breakthrough programs and specialties that have transformed the industry. Our multidisciplinary team of experts offers extensive, empathetic support across a spectrum of services, from advanced diagnostics to comprehensive treatment plans and ongoing assistance for individuals affected by cardiovascular and thoracic conditions.
