The Fidelis Care Blog

Prevention is the best way to fight heart disease. In the United States, heart disease causes 1 out of every 4 deaths in males. Fortunately, we can change that. About 80 percent of early deaths from heart disease or stroke could be prevented with lifestyle changes and working with a health care provider.

Understanding Your Risk

Heart disease can happen to anyone, including children. You can be born with it, but most heart disease develops over time due to poor habits such as smoking or eating an unhealthy diet. Having high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes also increases your risk.

Lowering Your Risk

• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, poultry, and fish; avoid having too much salt or sugar
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
• Keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar at a healthy level
• Don’t smoke or use any tobacco products
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations

Your Next Step

Talk to your doctor about safely reducing your risk and setting goals for a healthier heart. Your doctor may also prescribe medication.

Do you need to find a health care provider or hospital near you? Our Find a Doctor online tool can help. Visit fideliscare.org/findadoctor to get started.