Albany, NY — The New York State Department of Health is calling on residents to adopt healthier lifestyles to combat heart disease, the leading cause of death in the state. This initiative comes as part of American Heart Month, observed in February.
Dr. James McDonald, the State Health Commissioner, emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
McDonald said,
The risk of cardiovascular disease can be greatly diminished when people take steps to make positive lifestyle changes like never starting to smoke or quitting smoking, increasing physical activity and eating well. American Heart Month is a great time to spread awareness about the impact of cardiovascular disease and how to prevent heart attack and stroke.
According to the State Department of Health’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey report, approximately 1,298,000 adults in New York State have cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks, angina, coronary heart disease, or strokes.
The report highlights that cardiovascular disease prevalence is notably higher among adults in rural areas (9.9%), those experiencing food insecurity (9.7%), and individuals unable to afford medical care in the past year (9.5%). The prevalence is even more pronounced among adults lacking reliable transportation (15.9%), those with less than a high school education (12.6 percent), and those diagnosed with a depressive disorder (12.1%).
Health officials recommend several lifestyle changes to reduce cardiovascular disease risk, including regular physical activity, healthy eating, regular health screenings, and adherence to medical advice.
The U.S. Surgeon General advises adults to engage in two and a half hours of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, while children and adolescents should aim for one hour of physical activity daily.
For those who smoke, the NYS Quitline offers support for quitting. Additionally, individuals who consume alcohol are advised to do so in moderation.
For more information on heart disease prevention, visit the Department’s Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention website.
