 | Shelley Watts, APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) has worked at the Via Christi Heart Center for two years, and has spent a total of nine years in nursing. She is a staunch advocate of women’s heart health and plays an integral role in Via Christi events during National Heart Month sponsored by the American Heart Association. |
Health & Wellness
2012-01-26 15:08:09
Disease awareness
Q: What is the tie between the month of February and heart disease awareness?
A: February is National Heart Month, with the focus being on the danger of cardiovascular disease and the number of people it affects. “Wear Red for Women Day” is one of many events during National Heart Month that takes place Friday, February 3. This is a nationwide event that everyone is encouraged to take part in and, by wearing red, show your support for life-saving awareness of heart health problems. Many people do not know that more women die from cardiovascular disease than from the next four causes of death combined, including cancer.
Q: Why are we seeing an increase in cardiovascular disease in the U.S.?
A: Millions of Americans have or are on track to develop cardiovascular disease because of increased risk factors in our lives. Those factors can include: obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating habits and smoking. So February and National Health Month can also be a great reminder to stick to those New Year’s resolutions.
Q: Isn’t cardiovascular disease something that only older people, especially older men, have to worry about?
A: No, in fact heart disease can strike at any age, and in women we need to particularly be careful. In fact, more than 60% of women who die suddenly from coronary disease have no previous symptoms. That’s why it is so important to know the warning signs.
Q: Specifically, what are those warning signs that indicate you should seek medical attention?
A: Warning signs include: chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cold sweats, being light-headed and becoming nauseated. Do not ignore these warning signs, when dealing with heart issues, every second counts.
