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Oh, My Heart

February 06, 2012

Did you know that more women die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined? And women aren’t the only ones dealing with this issue. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, African-American males are 30 percent more likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic white males. Additionally, African-American adults are more likely to be diagnosed with coronary heart disease, and they are more likely to die from heart disease.

Heart health should be important to everyone, not just women and African Americans. February is American Heart Month, so here are some tips from the American Heart Association to stay heart healthy:

  • Reduce Stress -- Stress greatly affects your heart, but reducing it isn’t always easy. Try finding a fun physical activity, like walking, biking or swimming.
  • Go to Sleep -- Doctors recommend adults to get six to eight hours of sleep each night.
  • Laugh -- They do say laughter is the best medicine. Heard any good jokes lately?
  • Eat Better -- Fruit and vegetables are good for your overall health, not just your heart.

Sources: www.Heart.org and minorityhealth.hhs.gov

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