Heart disease is the #1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally. Even when those conditions don’t result in death, they cause disability and diminish quality of life. The good news is--almost 80% of heart disease and strokes can be prevented. We've compiled risk factors, prevention tactics, and next steps, so you can stay in the know and work toward leading a longer, healthier life.
Risk Factors
There are some risk factors you can't do anything about. But others you can treat, manage or control with the help of your primary care provider.
Risk Factors that Can be Managed
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Lack of regular activity
- Obesity
- Diabetes
Risk Factors You Can't Control
- Age
- Gender
- Hereditary/family health history
- Race
- Previous stroke or heart attack
Prevention Tactics
Mind, heart, and body are all connected. Moving more, sleeping better, stressing less, and eating well all help us to unlock our potential and live healthier. Craving this lifestyle is the goal, so little by little, start making changes to your everyday habits. Take a few more steps, fuel your body with nutritious foods, find ways to reduce the stressors in your life, and a few extra hours of sleep a night--it won't happen overnight, but you'll begin to love the way you feel and ultimately reduce your risk for heart disease.
Next Steps
While the statistics can feel overwhelming, remember that knowledge is your greatest defense. You don't have to overhaul your entire life by Monday morning. The most successful heart-healthy journeys start with one manageable change—like swapping a sugary soda for water or taking a 10-minute walk after dinner.
Why Your Primary Care Provider is Key
You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Your primary care team is here to help you navigate the manageable risk factors we mentioned above while also walking you through your risk with factors out of your control. Through routine screenings, we can:
- Monitor your blood pressure and provide strategies to keep it in a healthy range.
- Analyze your cholesterol levels to prevent arterial buildup.
- Manage blood sugar to reduce the strain caused by diabetes.
- Create a personalized plan that accounts for the uncontrollable factors like your family history and age.
Schedule Your Heart Health Screening
Are you curious about where your "numbers" stand? Contact us today to schedule a wellness exam. Let’s work together to ensure your heart stays strong for all the milestones ahead. Select a location below, and give us a shout.
Lubbock Primary Care Locations
South Quaker Location: 11005 & 11007 Quaker Ave., Lubbock, TX | 806-701-4040
Southwest Milwaukee Location: 10709 Milwaukee Ave., Lubbock, TX | 806-207-3703
Central University Location: 5015 University Ave. Unit B1, Lubbock, TX | 806-797-4357
North Location: 1120 West Loop 289, Lubbock, TX 79416 | 806-701-4040
Midland Location: 1300 W Wall St., Midland, TX | 432-684-4488
Abilene Location: 6743 Memorial Dr., Abilene, TX | 325-231-4667
