Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.

Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease. The good news? Heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to create opportunities for people to make healthier choices. Make a difference in your community: Spread the word about strategies for preventing heart disease and encourage people to live heart-healthy lives.

What is Heart Disease?

It is a disorder of the blood vessels of the heart that can lead to a heart attack. A heart attack happens when an artery becomes blocked, preventing oxygen and nutrients from getting to the heart. Heart disease is one of several cardiovascular diseases, which are diseases of the heart and blood vessel system. Other cardiovascular diseases include stroke, high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), and rheumatic heart disease.

Symptoms can include:

–  Chest pain (angina)
–  Shortness of breath
–  Pain, numbness, weakness or coldness in your legs or arms if the blood vessels in those parts of your body are narrowed
–  Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen or back

How can YOU make a difference during the month of February – Heart Health Month

–  Wear red on February 5th (the day nationally recognized to wear red and promote heart health!).
–  Educate yourself.
–  Become involved within your community to help support heart disease awareness.