HEARTSMARTS PATIENT EDUCATION CLASSES
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Cardiovascular disease, which includes coronary heart disease and stroke, is the leading cause of death in the United States. However, the good news is that up to 80% of heart disease and most chronic health conditions, including hypertension and diabetes, can be improved through healthy lifestyle choices.
The purpose of the HeartSmarts patient education program at the Ronald O. Perelman Heart Institute is to empower participants to live heart healthy lifestyles. When an individual is educated about health and healthy lifestyle choices, the entire family benefits.
Some of the topics that are addressed in HeartSmarts are:
- Heart Disease
- High Blood Pressure
- Diabetes
- Stress Management
- Nutrition
- Physical Activity
To learn more about the HeartSmarts patient education classes complete the contact us form below or email HeartSmarts program director Dr. Tettey at drtettey@heartsmarts.com
HeartSmarts 7 Steps to a Healthier Heart
1. EAT A HEART HEALTHY DIET
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help protect your heart. Avoid too much salt, sugar, saturated fat and trans fat.
2. EXERCISE
Getting at least 30 minutes of regular, daily exercise can reduce your risk of heart disease. Physical activity can help you control your weight and reduce your chances of developing other conditions that may put a strain on your heart, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
3. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT
Being overweight — especially if you carry excess weight around your middle — increases your risk of heart disease. Excess weight can lead to conditions that increase your chances of heart disease. Reducing your weight by just 3 to 5 percent can help improve your health.
4. DON'T SMOKE OR USE TOBACCO
Smoking or using tobacco of any kind is one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease. Chemicals in tobacco can damage your heart and blood vessels, leading to narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). Atherosclerosis can ultimately lead to a heart attack.
5. KNOW YOUR NUMBERS
High blood pressure, blood glucose, and high cholesterol can damage your heart and blood vessels. But without testing for them, you probably won't know whether you have these conditions. Regular screening can tell you what your numbers are and whether you need to take action.
6. MANAGE STRESS
Some people cope with stress in unhealthy ways — such as overeating, drinking or smoking. Finding alternative ways to manage stress — such as physical activity, relaxation exercises or meditation — can help improve your health.
7. GET QUALITY SLEEP
Sleep deprivation can do more than leave you yawning throughout the day; it can harm your health. People who don't get enough sleep have a higher risk of obesity, high blood pressure, heart attack, diabetes and depression. Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
Hands Only CPR
Hands Only CPR: Most people who experience cardiac arrest at home, work or in a public location die because they don’t receive immediate CPR from someone on the scene. As a bystander, don’t be afraid. Your actions can only help. When calling 911, you will be asked for your location. Be specific, especially if you’re calling from a mobile phone as that is not associated with a fixed address. Answering the dispatcher’s questions will not delay the arrival of help.
How to Give Hands-Only CPR- If you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse, call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of any tune that is 100 to 120 beats per minute. Immediate CPR can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.