February is Heart Health Month: Take Care of Your Heart in Van Buren and Cass Counties

February is Heart Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy heart. Heart disease is a leading health concern in both Van Buren and Cass counties, with heart disease significantly impacting our communities. In Van Buren County, the heart disease mortality rate stands at 186.4 per 100,000 residents, which is slightly lower than Michigan’s average of 194.9. However, Cass County has a higher heart disease mortality rate, underscoring the need for targeted efforts to reduce heart disease in our area. (Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, 2020)

Key Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Van Buren and Cass Counties

• Smoking: Smoking is a major contributor to heart disease, increasing the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and other serious health issues. (Van Buren/Cass District Health Department, 2023)
• High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure is one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke. Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential.
• Obesity: Obesity significantly raises the risk of heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is crucial for heart health.

Steps to Improve Heart Health

• Stay Active: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to keep your heart strong and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Eat Heart-Healthy Foods: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help prevent heart disease and improve overall health.
• Quit Smoking: There are many resources available to help you quit smoking. Stopping smoking is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of heart disease.
• Get Regular Check-Ups: Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels regularly to stay ahead of potential heart health problems.

How Van Buren and Cass County Residents Can Take Action

Preventing and managing heart disease begins with heart-healthy habits. The Van Buren/Cass District Health Department is committed to supporting local residents in their efforts to improve heart health. Together, we can make a difference in our community’s well-being.

Sources:

• Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. (2020). Van Buren County Profile. Retrieved from https://www.michigan.gov
• Van Buren/Cass District Health Department. (2023). Community Health Data. Retrieved from https://www.vbcassdhd.org