The No. 1 cause of death in the United States continues to be heart disease. Cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) disease has been the top killer of adults since 1921. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every 33 seconds, someone dies from cardiovascular disease. 702,880 people died from heart disease in 2022. Heart attacks and strokes happen when heart disease goes unchecked.
Hypertension (high blood pressure) and high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol intake, smoking and poor diet are major drivers of cardiovascular disease.
Lessening risks begins with awareness. People need to know what their personal risk factors might be. People can prevent future damage and mitigate current hazards by honestly examining — and changing, if necessary — behaviors and lifestyles.
How many people with hypertension are not even aware of their blood pressure? It is estimated tat at least 47% of adults in the United States are hypertensive. High blood pressure has been called the “silent killer” because there are rarely any symptoms and half of those affected are not aware that their blood pressure is high. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), in the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds. It is important to have blood pressure regularly checked and this can be as easy as using one of those measurement stands in the drug store or buying an inexpensive cuff set. If those numbers stay higher than 120-125 over 80-85, see a health care provider.
As with high blood pressure, many do not know their blood sugar or cholesterol levels. Simple blood tests can give answers, and primary health care provider can offer guidance and medication prescriptions if needed.
The effects of smoking on cardiovascular (and respiratory) health have been well documented for decades. AHA research has shown the smoking is the number one cause of preventable death in the United States. Smoking causes inflammation and damage to artery walls, speeds up clogging of the coronary arteries which decreases blood flow to the heart. Smokers are almost three times more likely to die of cardiovascular disease than nonsmokers. Secondhand smoke also increases the risk of heart disease and strokes in nonsmokers. Nonsmokers experienced 34,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease; people who do not smoke but are exposed to secondhand smoke at home or at work have a 25-30% increased risk of developing heart disease. Stopping smoking is one of the most important interventions for reducing heart disease risk. Vaping is not a solution; it too carries multiple risks.
Diets can cause or avert heart diseases. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein and “good” fats (think dairy, eggs, nuts, oily fish) should be included in a healthy diet. People should limit sodium, sugar, trans and saturated fats. This is neither rocket science nor difficult to achieve. Avoid ultra processed foods and cook at home rather than eating out often. Increase intake of berries, especially strawberries, beans and legumes such as lentils and chickpeas. Limit hamburgers, sodas, fried foods and canned soups which are loaded with sodium.
Hearts need regular physical activity. A person’s minimum goal should be 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week. Walking, biking, gym workouts, gardening, swimming, tennis and pickleball are just some examples of healthy activity choices. Exercise can lower blood pressure, improve circulation, increase oxygenation, strengthen heart muscle and help to control weight. Inactivity does just the opposite.
Speaking of weight, obesity is a driver of heart disease. Excess weight often leads to increased blood pressure, increased cholesterol and lower energy levels. Obesity increases the risk for diabetes; according to the AHA, people with diabetes are two to four times more likely to be at risk for heart disease. Approximately 68% of older adults (65 and older) with diabetes also have cardiovascular problems.
According to the CDC, between 2018 and 2020 heart disease costs were $252.2 billion. This included the cost of health care services, medications and lost productivity.