Dr. Velarde: Smoking is a significant risk factor because it is so damaging, not only to the cardiovascular system, but to all organs. Despite smoking rates decreasing in the United States, it is still quite pervasive and more so in certain regions of the country.
Quitting tobacco is critical because it doesn’t matter how well you eat or how much you exercise: if you smoke, you’re putting yourself at great risk of developing health conditions, including heart disease.
Another major factor is stress. Especially during the pandemic, everyone is feeling some level of stress. It’s forcing us to reevaluate our lives, values, and our relationships. We need to be more lenient with ourselves and one another.
People can help combat stress through things like:
Meditation Connecting with family and friends more often Being outdoors and appreciating nature
And, of course, knowing your family history for heart disease will help you be aware of your risk. It’s also important to track your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers and, if they are elevated, treat them under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
