Heart Health Month: Caring for the Heart of Our Community ❤️
At Community Health of Central Washington, we’re committed to supporting the well‑being of every individual and family we serve. February is Heart Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease, promoting healthy habits, and empowering our community with the knowledge needed to protect one of our most vital organs—the heart.
Heart disease remains one of the leading health concerns in the United States. While it can be serious, many of the risks are preventable through lifestyle choices, early detection, and ongoing care. This month, we’re focusing on education, prevention, and the small steps that can make a big difference.
Understanding Heart Health
Your heart works nonstop—pumping blood, delivering oxygen, and keeping your body functioning. When the heart is healthy, it supports energy, mobility, and overall quality of life. When it’s not, it can affect nearly every part of the body.
Several factors can influence heart health, including:
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Lack of physical activity
• Unhealthy eating habits
• Stress
• Family history of heart disease
Knowing your personal risk factors is an important first step toward prevention.
Common Causes of Poor Heart Health
Poor Diet
Diets high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can strain the heart over time.
Smoking and tobacco use
Tobacco damages blood vessels and significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
Physical Inactivity
A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes.
Chronic stress
Long-term stress can raise blood pressure and contribute to unhealthy coping habits.
Tips for a Healthier Heart
1. Move Your Body Regularly
Aim for activities you enjoy—walking, dancing, gardening, or anything that gets your heart pumping. Even short bursts of movement throughout the day can help.
2. Choose Heart‑Friendly Foods
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reducing processed foods, sugary drinks, and excess salt can support better heart function.
3. Prioritize Sleep
Quality sleep helps regulate blood pressure, stress levels, and overall health.
4. Manage Stress in Healthy Ways
Deep breathing, mindfulness, hobbies, and connecting with loved ones can help reduce stress.
5. Avoid Tobacco
If you smoke or use tobacco, consider talking with your healthcare team about resources to help you quit.
6. Stay on Top of Your Health Screenings
Regular checkups can help identify concerns early. Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels is especially important.
We’re Here to Support Your Heart Health
Heart Health Month is a reminder that you don’t have to navigate your health alone. Our team at Community Health of Central Washington is here to support you with compassionate care, education, and resources.
If you have questions about your heart health, want to understand your risk factors, or need help making lifestyle changes, we encourage you to reach out. Talking with your doctor is a great way to get personalized guidance, and our team is always happy to help you take the next step toward a healthier future.