Heart disease is a leading killer around the world and the top cause of death in the United States. It killed an estimated 17.9 million people in 2019, representing 32% of all deaths globally, according to the World Health Organization.
There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of experiencing a cardiac arrest:
- Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a diet that is low in salt, saturated fat, and added sugars, and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking increases your risk of cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular diseases.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of cardiac arrest.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases, so it’s important to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or therapy.
- Get regular check-ups: Make sure to see your healthcare provider regularly to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other key health indicators.
- Take medications as prescribed: If you have been prescribed medication to manage a cardiovascular condition, be sure to take it as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Know the warning signs: Recognize the signs and symptoms of a cardiac arrest and seek medical attention immediately if you experience them. These include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting.