Page 41 - PS Logistics 2022 Benefit Guide

A LIFE WELL LIVED

February is American Heart Month, which makes it the perfect time to reduce
your risk for heart disease, heart attacks and stroke.

Heart disease is a common term for coronary artery disease (CAD). It is the number one cause of
death in both men and women over the age of 60 in the United States.

Causes
Heart disease is caused by atherosclerosis—a buildup of plaque in the inner walls of the arteries—which narrows,
slows or blocks the flow of blood to the heart.

Risk factors
Controllable risk factors for heart disease include the following: High blood pressure, Inflammation, High LDL
cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, Smoking, Being overweight or obese, Lack of physical activity, Using illegal drugs.

Treatment
The goal of treatment of heart disease is to relieve symptoms, control or reduce risk factors, stop or slow further
damage to the arteries and prevent future cardiac events. Treatment includes several options:

• Self-care and prevention
• Medications
• Procedures to open blocked or narrowed arteries or to bypass them
• Cardiac rehabilitation

Routine screenings
The American Heart Association recommends check-ups annually that include blood pressure tests at least once
every 2 years starting by age 20, along with blood cholesterol test at least once every 2 to 6 years starting by age 20.

To learn more about heart disease, visit:
https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/index.htm
A Life Well Lived p. 5

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