An extra day to put your heart health first this year

Leap into heart health with these tips from a Parkland cardiologist DALLAS – This year we aren’t just celebrating American Heart Month in February, but another leap year. Giving everyone an extra day to make heart-healthy decisions or simply learn more about taking care of your heart, which is central to overall health. Because, while leap year may add an extra day to the calendar, maintaining good cardiovascular health can help add years to your life. Although an estimated 80% of cardiovascular disease is preventable, one person dies every 36 seconds of heart disease in the United States, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). Heart disease is also the leading cause of death in Dallas County according to the 2022 Dallas County Community Health Needs Assessment. Parkland cardiologists say that lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of heart disease, but first it is important to know the basics of heart health and how these diseases come into play. “The most common type of heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease (CAD), which causes heart attacks. Fortunately, coronary artery disease is very preventable with lifestyle changes and medications,” Jose Joglar, MD, director of cardiology at Parkland Health...