South Carolinians encouraged to live a heart smart lifestyle – ABC Columbia

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South Carolina Department of Public Health

Photo: South Carolina Department of Public Health

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) encourages South Carolinians to live a heart smart lifestyle.

As American Heart Month is celebrated in February, SCDPH is reminding residents that it is important to maintain good habits that build a strong, healthy heart.

American Heart Month is a national campaign that spotlights cardiovascular health.

SCDPH says heart disease is the leading cause of death and disability in the United States, with 702,880 people dying from the condition in 2022.

Heart disease was also the leading cause of death in South Carolina in 2022, with 12,014 South Carolinians dying from the disease that year.

Obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking are major risk factors for heart disease, and almost three quarters of South Carolina adults have one or more risk factors, according to DPH.

According to officials, nearly 75% of women ages 20-39 have one or more modifiable risk factors.

In South Carolina, heart disease deaths were 27% higher for African Americans compared to Whites in 2021.

Tips for a healthy heart include: 

• Limit alcohol use and stop smoking, vaping and using tobacco products.
• Eat a healthy diet that’s low in fat, cholesterol and salt.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Move more; at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
• Get regular health screenings for cholesterol and blood pressure.
• If you have diabetes, take steps to manage it.
• Take your medicine (if applicable) as directed by your provider.

DPH encourages everyone in South Carolina to start at least one new heart-healthy habit this year.

To learn more about heart disease, visit DPH’s Heart Disease webpage or cdc.gov/heart-disease/.