HOUSTON, Texas (Covering Katy News) — Heart illness kills somebody within the United States each 40 seconds, however Houston Methodist cardiologists say most of these deaths are preventable.
As February marks American Heart Month, docs are emphasizing that easy way of life adjustments can dramatically cut back the chance of the nation’s main explanation for dying.
Nearly one in 5 deaths within the United States are associated to coronary heart illness. High blood strain, a number one explanation for coronary heart illness, impacts almost half of U.S. adults, but just one in 4 folks with the situation have it below management.
“In 2026, heart disease prevention isn’t about waiting for warning signs — it’s about acting early,” Dr. Anil Odhav, heart specialist at Houston Methodist West Hospital mentioned. “With better data, smarter technology, and a deeper understanding of lifestyle and biology, we’re shifting from crisis care to continuous care, helping people protect their hearts long before disease takes hold.”
Understanding Different Types of Heart Disease
The time period “heart disease” encompasses a number of situations affecting the guts, together with coronary artery illness, the place fatty deposits slim blood vessels; arrhythmias, which disrupt regular coronary heart rhythm; and coronary heart valve ailments that cut back blood circulation. Other situations embody cardiomyopathy, the place thickened coronary heart muscle cannot pump successfully; coronary heart failure, the place the guts cannot meet the physique’s wants; congenital defects current at beginning; and pericardial issues that compress the guts.
Warning Signs of Heart Disease
“Heart disease often starts subtly,” in accordance data supplied by Methodist West Hospital.
“Common warning signs include chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, fatigue and dizziness. Other symptoms may include palpitations, sweating, indigestion, nausea and trouble sleeping. For women in particular, heart disease may also present itself as jaw, back, neck or stomach pain.”
Who Is at Risk for Heart Disease?
Individuals with hypertension, excessive ldl cholesterol, diabetes, weight problems, a household historical past of coronary heart illness or those that use tobacco, eat poorly or lead a sedentary way of life are at better danger of growing coronary heart illness.
How to Prevent Heart Disease
Heart illness prevention is feasible. By managing well being situations, going to routine exams, staying energetic, quitting tobacco and selecting more healthy meals, danger for coronary heart illness is tremendously diminished.
American Heart Month is a time to teach, advocate and act. If somebody you realize is in danger for coronary heart illness, go to Houston Methodist on-line or name our cardiology crew at 281-619-5658.