By guest columnist Carly Lansley, Clermont County Public Health
Heart health is top of mind in communities across the country. Nationwide, maintaining a healthy heart has been identified a priority among many healthcare, local public health and community-based organizations.
What is heart disease and why is it important?
The term heart disease refers to various heart conditions including coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 US deaths in 2022 resulted from heart disease. Of further interest, most deaths from heart disease occur in those ages 45 and older. (Mortality | DataOhio).
But there is good news – right here in Clermont County.
Data from 2022 shows Clermont County has a lower age-adjusted rate of heart disease death compared to Ohio as a whole (Mortality | DataOhio). Even knowing this, maintaining good heart health is key to enjoying a healthy lifestyle.
How do I prevent heart disease?
Because mortality related to heart disease increases with age, it’s important to protect your heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. This includes regular physical activity such as walking or jogging, eating a balanced diet which includes fruits and vegetables, and maintaining routine health visits and checkups.
Related:
Preventing Heart Disease | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Blood Tests to Determine Risk of Coronary Artery Disease | Cleveland Clinic
Heart Attack, Stroke and Cardiac Arrest Symptoms | American Heart Association
Moving Matters for Older Adults | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Council on Aging’s health and wellness programs can help
Council on Aging has a variety of health and wellness programs to help you achieve a reduced risk of heart trouble and give you more control of your health. Workshops focus on issues such as managing chronic health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Click here for more information on these free workshops.
Carly Lansley is an Epidemiologist at Clermont County Public Health (CCPH). CCPH works to prevent disease, promote health, and protect the environment. CCPH efforts work in collaboration with the Clermont Partnership for Health that aims to coordinate action to improve population health.