This February marks the 38th consecutive American Heart Month. The campaign from the American Heart Association raises awareness about how 1 in 3 women are diagnosed with heart disease annually. Heart disease continues to be one of the greatest health threats to Americans and is the leading cause of death worldwide, according to the Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics.
This year’s theme for American Heart Month is all about reclaiming your rhythm. It is all about finding your rhythm after the pandemic has taken a huge toll on Americans and their heart health.
“We want people to turn on some music and dance it out and get happy and really find time for themselves. Taking a dance break is always a good idea. Finding music that makes you happy is great for your mental wellbeing,” said Christie Steele-Garcia, the development director for the American Heart Association.
One way you can stay on top of your heart health is by knowing your numbers. This means knowing your blood pressure, your cholesterol, and your BMI.
The American Heart Association also recommends being active for at least 10 minutes each day.
Christie says a change you can make in the kitchen is swapping out salt for other herbs and spices.
The American Heart Association of Southwest Virginia has a number of events planned this year to raise awareness. Their annual Heart Ball will be held at the Hotel Roanoke on March 26. In May, they will host their “Go Red for Women” luncheon that shines a light on how women are impacted by heart disease.
“There is nothing like coming together with someone who supports, the supporters of this mission because I haven’t met a single person yet who hasn’t had some type of tie to cardiovascular disease or stroke. It is such a common denominator among people and we just really want to spread the awareness,” said Steele-Garcia.
An easy way to show your support is on National Wear Red Day. This will take place on Friday, Feb. 4. The American Heart Association is asking the nation to wear red to show your support of their “Go Red for Women” campaign. The goal is to have the community and social media flooded with everyone wearing red. You can post your pictures and use the #GoRedVA.
For more heart health tips, click here.