hearthealth

Heart health is the state of the heart and circulatory system, reflecting how well the heart can pump blood to meet the body's needs. It involves the heart muscle, valves, blood vessels, and the blood pressure and flow. Good heart health lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and supports overall well-being.

Key indicators include normal blood pressure, healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels, a healthy body weight, regular physical activity, and the absence of symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath during routine activity. Lifestyle choices, genetics, and medical conditions influence heart health over a lifetime.

Major risk factors are categorized as modifiable and non-modifiable. Modifiable factors include smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, excess weight, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Non-modifiable factors include age, family history, and certain genetic conditions. Reducing modifiable risks through lifestyle changes and appropriate medical treatment can improve heart health.

Prevention and management emphasize a balanced approach: regular aerobic exercise, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, limited saturated fat, sodium, added sugars, and alcohol; avoidance of tobacco; maintaining regular medical checkups; and adhering to prescribed medications. Stress management and adequate sleep also support heart health.

Common heart conditions include coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmias, and stroke. Symptoms to monitor warrant prompt medical evaluation.

Ongoing research and public health efforts aim to improve detection, prevention, and rehabilitation, with guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association guiding practice worldwide. End.