48% of American Adults Suffer from Cardiovascular Diseases

An annual study recently revealed that 48% of American adults (approximately 121.5 million people) suffer from cardiovascular diseases, and the number of deaths from these diseases is increasing.

The latest research from the American Heart Association shows that cardiovascular disease is the top cause of death in the United States, affecting nearly half of all adults to some degree.

The study’s findings show that 48% of American adults (around 121.5 million people) have cardiovascular diseases (including coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, or high blood pressure), and the number of fatalities from these conditions is on the rise.

According to Dr. Mariell Jessup, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of the American Heart Association, the primary causes of cardiovascular diseases are lack of exercise, smoking, obesity, and failure to adjust lifestyle when signs of heart problems appear.

She also mentioned that an unhealthy lifestyle is leading to an increasing number of people suffering from cardiovascular diseases, and this trend is not only occurring in the United States but worldwide.

Medical experts emphasized that to maintain good health, an adult should engage in moderate to high-intensity exercise for at least 150 minutes per week and strength training twice a week. However, only about 22.5% of American adults follow these recommended exercise guidelines.

While the rate of adult smokers in America has decreased, the number of smokers remains high. Data from 2015 and 2016 showed that 80% of American adults claimed they did not smoke, an increase from 73% in 1999 and 2000.

During the study period, scientists pointed out that up to 40% of American adults and 18.5% of American children are classified as obese, a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases.

However, experts stressed that up to 80% of cardiovascular diseases are preventable by controlling blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent obesity, and having regular health check-ups at least once every 1-2 years.

Here are 7 tips for people with cardiovascular disease:

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of saturated fats, trans fats, salt, and sugar.
2. Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
3. Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Keep track of your blood pressure and work with your healthcare provider to maintain it within a healthy range. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease.
4. Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies that you enjoy. Chronic stress can negatively impact your heart health.
5. Quit Smoking: If you smoke, seek help to quit. Smoking significantly increases your risk of heart disease and other health problems.
6. Limit Alcohol Intake: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For women, this means up to one drink per day, and for men, up to two drinks per day.
7. Regular health check-ups: Visit your healthcare provider regularly for check-ups and screenings. Regular monitoring of your heart health can help detect issues early and manage existing conditions effectively.
8. Take Medications as Prescribed: If your doctor has prescribed medications for your heart condition, make sure to take them exactly as directed. Do not skip doses or stop taking your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
9. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on your heart. Work with a nutritionist or your doctor to develop a weight management plan that suits your needs.
10. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. Proper hydration supports overall health and can help maintain optimal heart function. Avoid sugary drinks and limit caffeine intake.