What is the number one cause of death throughout the world?
For more than two decades, the leading killer in the world has been heart disease.
Because of that, the month of February has been renamed American Heart Month.
“February is a time that allows us to bring awareness to heart health, as people do not always understand the seriousness of it,” said Dr. Stacy Goddard, assistant professor of kinesiology at Missouri State.
“Our hope is this month helps people understand some of the symptoms of heart disease and some preventative measures they can take.”
Being proactive
Since it is such a common issue, Goddard stresses how important it is for people to understand heart health.
This education is vital to prevent heart disease, cardiac arrest and other heart-related health problems.
“Heart disease can affect anyone and everyone,” said Goddard.
“It is important for everyone, no matter their age or gender, to be aware of the basic symptoms that can occur with heart disease.”
The basic symptoms include:
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- Chest pain.
- Pain radiating down the left arm.
- Shortness of breath during normal activities.
- Nausea.
- Sweating.
Ways to stay ahead
Though it is hard to determine who is at risk for heart disease, there are many ways to help prevent it.
Some ways to decrease the risk of heart disease include:
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- Healthy diet.
- Limiting stress.
- Excersizing
- Not smoking/vaping.
Goddard hopes that by recognizing American Heart Month throughout February, our world can start to combat this issue.
“Our goal is to not let heart disease continue to be the number one killer in the world,” Goddard said. “By continuing to highlight this issue and educate this issue I think we are on our way there.”