Fortunately, there are measures you can take to help reduce your chances of heart disease. Steps you can take to improve your health and reduce your risk include:

Quit Smoking. Smokers have more than twice the risk of heart attack than a non-smoker.

Control High Blood Pressure. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the most common heart disease risk factor. You can help control blood pressure through diet, exercise, weight management and medications, if needed.

Improve Cholesterol Levels. The higher your cholesterol level, the higher your risk for heart disease. A diet low in cholesterol, saturated and trans fat will help reduce your risk for heart disease.

Control Diabetes. Diabetes is especially prevalent in Oklahoma. If not controlled, diabetes can be a significant contributor to heart attacks and death. A healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and, in some cases, prescription medications can help control diabetes.

Be Active. The less you move, the greater your chance for heart disease. Research has found that even exercising 30 minutes a day has great benefits. Think about parking further from the door, taking the stairs or walking to work. But consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

Eat Healthy. Choose a diet low in sodium, saturated/trans fat, cholesterol and refined sugars. Consider fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains.

Weight Matters. When you carry excess weight, you add considerable strain on your heart. In fact, research is showing that obesity itself increases the risk for heart disease. Talk with your doctor about your diet and exercise and develop a plan to maintain a healthy weight.

Attitude Counts. Being stressed or having uncontrolled anger can lead to a stroke or heart attack. If you have difficulty managing stress, consider relaxation techniques, go for a walk or try to reduce the amount of activity or obligations in your life.

Visit your primary care physician regularly. It’s a good idea to visit a physician annually for regular check-ups.

Oklahoma Heart Institute offers a variety of cardiac screenings to help detect and treat heart disease. For more information, call (918) 574-9000.