DeKalb County celebrates American Heart Month | Courtesy of Shutterstock
DeKalb County celebrates American Heart Month | Courtesy of Shutterstock
The DeKalb County Health Department (DCHD) announced that February is American Heart Month on Monday, Jan. 30.
Public Health Administrator Lisa Gonzalez posted a news release with health information on reducing the risk of heart disease.
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the top killer of women, causing one out of three deaths each year. DeKalb residents can reduce their risk by eating a healthy diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables and by exercising regularly.
Quitting smoking and limiting alcoholic beverages also reduces the risk of heart disease. In addition, people should know their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar numbers. All of the risk factors associated with these numbers can be changed by diet, exercise and other healthy lifestyle changes.
DCHD staff invited the public to help them launch National American Heart Month by wearing red on Friday, Feb. 3. "Go Red for Women Day" is sponsored by Macy's and CVS Health.
DCHD also shares ideas on ways to reduce the risk of heart disease on social media. "Follow" and "like" their twitter and Facebook page to get the latest news from DCHD staff.
Alerts Sign-up