The Heart Truth

 

Every February, during American Heart Month, the National Institutes of Health takes a stand against the #1 killer of American women- Heart Disease. 

The campaign focuses on educating women of all ages about the risk of heart disease and the importance of taking preventative action. Often times people think heart problems are a "man's issue", but you'll be surprised to know that 1 in 4 women in the United States will die of heart disease. 80 percent of women between the ages of 40-60 will have at least one risk factor for heart disease which include

•  High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Coronary artery disease/ high cholesterol
• Being overweight
• Being physically inactive
• Having a family history of early heart disease
• Age (55 or older for women)
• Smoking and alcohol use

Another risk factor many women don't consider is simply not having enough time! To often than not, we are busy with our career and taking care of a home to even consider putting our own health in the forefront.

Unfortunately minority women are at an even higher risk of heart disease due to having higher rates of risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and physical inactivity. Disparities in getting quality health care is also a problem.

Celebrities join in the fight with The Heart Truth's annual Red Dress Collection fashion show. Kicking off New York Fashion Week, not only is it a chance to see some of our fave celebs in beautiful dresses, but it also gives them a chance to tell why heart health is important to them.

CNN reporter Soledad O'Brien looked gorgeous in a Black Halo Eve gown

Today Show host Savannah Guthrie

Olympic Gold Medalist Gabby Douglas

Ms. Douglas had some keen words of advice; "Eat protein, stay active and eat healthy.” For a history-making athlete that may seem easy to do, but Douglas emphasizes it takes a lot of work, even for her.

Hot Mama Chris Jenner strutted her stuff

Ms. Kelly Osborne

Toni Braxton strolled down the catwalk to her song "Unbreak My Heart"

Ms. Braxton had this to say "Sometimes it’s challenging practicing self-care, because [as] women, we tend to forget about ourselves" ."But sometimes there are signs and symbols that say, 'hey, get yourself checked out, take a little break.'" For her, those red flags include chronic fatigue and elevated blood pressure.

TV personality Wendy Williams

Tips to Keep Healthy

• Build a bond- even in your 20's and 30's it's important to create a personal relationship with a physician. Seeing your doctor at least once a year and having a thorough checkup will increase your awareness of your own health and personal risk for heart disease. 

• Know your family history- if either of your parents, grandparents, and even aunts or uncles have heart disease this may increase your risk, especially if they developed it at an early age

• Sweat It Out- by now, we all know the beenfits of regular exercise. Not only will it help you lose or maintain healthy body weight, but it will also decrease cholesterol (bad fat), one of the leading causes of heart disease

• Love Yourself- taking your health into your own hands, especially at an early age will set you on the right path for optimal health. 

For more information head over to The Heart Truth
Photo Credits:msn.com