The number one cause of death among men and women in the U.S. is heart disease. Thankfully, living a heart healthy lifestyle can help you avoid it.
At Saint Joseph Health System, we believe that better health starts with us. Whether you're looking to prevent cardiovascular disease or manage an existing condition, our heart care team is here to support you every step of the way.
Our highly experienced specialists helped us achieve national recognition by U.S. News & World Report. The best part? We're in your community, ready to help. From preventative care to treating a wide variety of cardiac and vascular conditions, better health starts with us.
If you take the right steps and visit your doctor regularly, you can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Who Is at Highest Risk for Heart Disease?
Heart disease can affect anyone of any age, but certain factors may increase your risk. Risk factors for heart disease include:
- Smoking
- Obesity; carrying excess weight
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Lack of physical activity
- Poor nutrition and eating habits
- Family history of heart disease
- History of preeclampsia
If you meet any one or more of the above risk factors, implementing healthy behaviors now can greatly reduce your risk. At St. Joe's, we offer state-of-the-art cardiovascular treatments, such as cardiac catheterizations, heart transplants, bypass surgeries and open heart surgeries.
What Are the Best Ways to Care for Your Heart?
Caring for your heart involves practicing healthy behaviors – exercise, good nutrition, and avoiding foods and activities that can damage your cardiovascular system. Working with a cardiologist is another important aspect of heart care.
Other ways to practice good heart care include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight and body mass index (BMI).
- Losing excess weight.
- Getting plenty of quality sleep.
- Not smoking.
- Managing and reducing stress.
- Exercising regularly.
- Eating heart-healthy foods, including dark leafy greens, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, fatty fish, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
- Getting your blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked regularly by a cardiologist.
St. Joe's Can Help
Through innovative treatments and compassionate care, we are committed to helping you live a healthier life. Whether you are taking your first step in caring for your heart or recovering from a heart attack or stroke, go to St. Joe’s.