Heart Disease Can Be Preventable

By Gerald Sotsky On Jul 7, 2022

Although heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, many Americans don’t recognize that it’s largely preventable. Fortunately, 90% of heart disease is due to modifiable/controllable risk factors. This means that heart disease is largely preventable and controllable by addressing treatable risk factors and making lifestyle changes. Key factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking.

Here are some tips to help keep your heart healthy.

• Become familiar with your family history of heart disease.
• Have your blood pressure checked regularly.
• Follow a heart-healthy diet plan, such as a Mediterranean or plant-based diet.
• Know the factors that can increase your risk of developing heart disease: such as stress, smoking or vaping, high blood pressure, and obesity.
• Make sure to get enough sleep.
• Keep your body physically active. There are many exercises that can be done from the comfort of your home.
• Schedule a free heart screening.

About the Author: Gerald Sotsky, MD, is the chair of cardiac services for Valley Medical Group and director of cardiovascular services for The Valley Hospital. Valley offers a free comprehensive heart screening for women and men ages 20 to 79 to determine the potential risk for heart disease. For more information about Valley’s Cardiac Screening Program or to make an appointment for a heart screening, please visit ValleyHealth.com/HeartScreening or call 201-447-8535. Virtual and in-person appointments are available.

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