Heart disease the cause of one in four deaths each year in AmericaDate: 3/4/2016 SPRINGFIELD – AFC Doctors Express reminds area residents that every year, one in four deaths are caused by heart disease. Although this is a startling fact, heart disease can be prevented by making a few proactive lifestyle changes.
Both men and women should consider the following lifestyle adjustments to increase heart health: • Schedule a visit with your doctor. It is important to schedule a regular check-up with your doctor and set goals for your health. While it can be stressful to schedule a doctor’s visit during a busy work week, AFC Doctors Express’ extended hours can accommodate your needs. Stop by an AFC Doctor’s Express location until 8 p.m. during the week to test your blood pressure and see if a follow-up appointment is needed with your primary care physician. • Put down the salt shaker. Try a low sodium dinner at home during the week with spices and herbs instead of using salt. Cooking at home during the week, instead of eating out, can contribute to a healthier heart. • Make exercise a daily habit. While everyone does not have time to fit an exercise routine into busy schedules, adding just 15 minutes of walking three to five times a week can improve your heart health and your overall well-being. • Make an effort to quit smoking. By quitting smoking, you can immediately impact your heart health in a positive way and prevent heart disease and stroke. Set small goals for yourself and talk to your doctor about different ways to kick your habit.
“There are many ways that people can decrease their risk for heart disease,” Chief Executive Officer of Medvest LLC Jim Brennan said. “It starts with understanding what risk factors contribute to heart disease. However, many people do not take preventative health measures like scheduling annual check-ups with their primary care physicians to evaluate these concerns.”
President of Medvest, LLC, Rick Crews added, “We hope that by raising awareness about blood pressure and cholesterol checks at AFC Doctors Express, people will come in and see if they are at risk at a time that is convenient for them. Then, they can follow-up with their primary care physician if needed.”
Reflecting on habits can be a stressful time especially when discussing heart health. The good news is there are simple steps that can be made to improve heart health that can also lower stress levels. Stop by an AFC Doctors Express location after work to set goals and make progress on bettering your health.
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