Take Care of Your Heart and Your Heart and Will Take Care of You

by CPT Simeon G. Smith, 95th

CABde (A) Public Health Nurse

Did you know that one in three American die of heart disease? It is the # 1 killer of women, regardless of race. It strikes at

younger ages than most people think, and the risk rises in the

middle ages. Also, heart disease can diminish health and the

ability to do even activities like climbing the stair. It can decrease

your entire quality of life. In addition, too few people realize that

heart disease is the number one killer of American women. The

good news is that heart disease can be prevented. This is why the

95th Civil Affairs Brigade Medical Section is joining in the

campaign to raise awareness that heart disease is the number one

killer of women in the United States during February, proclaimed

American Heart Month by the American Heart Association.

Many women still believe that it is a man's disease and “not my problem.” Heart disease is a significant problem

among women and kills more women in the U.S. each year than all forms of cancer combined, including breast

and cervical cancer (CDC). Here are some surprising facts:

1 in 4 women in the United States die of heart disease every year

2/3 of women who have a heart attack fail to make a full recovery

(American Heart Association).

In order to prevent or lower your risk of heart and stroke, here are some simple steps:

be physically active every day; follow your doctor's advice about the type of physical activity best for you

eat less salt and sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol; eat more fiber, choose more fiber-rich

whole grains, fruits vegetables and beans.

stay at a healthy weight

take medication as prescribed and ask your doctor about taking baby aspirin (National Heart, Lung and

Blood Institute).

if you smoke, consider the risks and select a quit date

The Medical Section at the 95th Civil Affairs Brigade (A) encourages everyone to:

have regular physical exams and screenings to determine your risk for heart disease and other conditions

know your healthy heart numbers – cholesterol and blood pressure, and blood glucose

ask questions, if you are not sure about your condition or taking medications

know your family history to determine if you are at increased risk for heart disease

take steps to reduce your risk for heart disease and diabetes

During the month of February, in observance of American Heart Month, the Public Health Nurse will have

brochures and educational materials to hand out to our soldiers and their families.

For more information on woman and heart disease, visit:

www.health.mil or www.cdc.gov.