Keeping Heart Healthy for African-American Men

One in every 4 men dies from heart disease every year, and African-American men—especially those who live in the southeast region of the United States—suffer from heart disease more than any other race. Why are these rates so high? Unhealthy heart habits such as poor diets, a lack of exercise, high blood pressure, smoking and not visiting the doctor regularly are just a few factors that contribute to undiagnosed heart disease.

African-American men: It isn’t too late to take control and put your heart health first. February is American Heart Month and a great time for you to take action. This month, Million Hearts^® is encouraging you to adopt one heart healthy lifestyle change and share your success. You can take action with a few small steps:

• Schedule a visit with your health care professional to talk about heart health, specifically, about following the "ABCS”;
• Walk at least 15 minutes, three times a week, increasing that time a little each week until you reach 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderately intense activity each week;
• Start cooking at home at least three times a week. Lower your sodium by making easy swaps, like using fresh or dried herbs and spices instead of salt. Aim to reduce sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg each day and make your kitchen heart healthy;
• Take steps to quit smoking, if you smoke.

These steps are important for everyone to improve their heart health. Show your support by sharing your successes on social media using the hashtag #HeartMonth, and participate in the Million Hearts^® Heart Month challenge on Facebook. Check out the Million Hearts^® Healthy is Strong initiative and visit the Million Hearts website to learn more about how to get—and stay—heart healthy. Your family, friends and community are counting on you to take care of your heart.