Almost 700,000 people die of heart disease in this country every year, according to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That accounts for approximately 30 percent of all U.S. deaths.

"Although it's the number one killer in the United States, recent advances in heart disease treatment and research are enabling an increasing number of patients to live longer and more productive lives," says R. Brent New, MD, FACC, FACS, thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon on staff at Saint Francis Medical Center's Heart Institute. "The fact remains, however, that you can take steps to prevent heart disease from occurring in the first place."

According to New, the following lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on your heart health:

1) Exercise: Regular exercise is one of the best ways to strengthen your heart and decrease your chances of developing heart disease. It also reduces cholesterol levels and lowers blood pressure, both of which can lead to heart disease.

2) Quit Smoking and Drink Moderately: If you smoke, stop. It's never too late. Studies show five years after quitting smoking, the risk of developing heart disease is the same as someone who never smoked. Research also indicates people who drink heavily are more likely to die of heart disease. So, if you drink, do it in moderation.

3) Watch Your Weight/Diet: Maintain a healthy weight, and eat a variety of nutritional foods every day. Reduce your salt intake. Cut down on foods containing saturated fat, which raises cholesterol levels in your blood and can lead to blocked blood vessels.

While there are no guarantees that a heart-healthy lifestyle will prevent heart disease, it has proven to reduce the risk of developing heart disease by improving your physical and emotional well-being. Still, some individuals need to be particularly careful.

"Anyone with a family history of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension or other circulatory problems is at heightened risk for heart disease," says New. "These individuals should be screened regularly."
This screening, or risk assessment, should begin at age 20 and include measuring blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels as well as assessing smoking status, diet, alcohol intake and physical activity.

From Weekly Health Page: Feb. 4, 2007