February is American Heart Month, a timely reminder to focus on the health that allows us to show up for the moments that matter most.
Whether it is time with family, meaningful work, time outdoors or maintaining independence, heart health plays a central role in how well we live. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and stroke continues to affect individuals and families across Colorado. The good news: Many of the major risk factors are preventable, detectable and manageable.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and tobacco use are among the leading contributors to heart attack and stroke. They are also common – and often symptom-free.
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it may not cause noticeable symptoms before leading to serious complications. Diabetes and prediabetes can quietly damage blood vessels over time. Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, reduces oxygen in the blood and significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Even exposure to secondhand smoke increases cardiovascular risk.
The encouraging news is that small changes can make a meaningful difference. Quitting smoking rapidly reduces heart disease risk. Within one year of quitting, the risk of coronary heart disease drops significantly and continues to decline over time. Support, medication and counseling improve success rates, and help is available locally.
Protecting your heart starts with knowing your numbers. Do you know your blood pressure? Have you had your cholesterol checked? Have you been screened for diabetes or prediabetes?
Routine screening is simple and can dramatically reduce long-term risk when concerns are identified early. With timely detection, many conditions can be managed through lifestyle changes, medication, tobacco cessation and regular follow-up care.
Heart health is also supported by regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting sodium and processed foods, managing stress, prioritizing sleep and taking medications as prescribed. Consistent, everyday habits add up over time.
La Plata County Public Health encourages residents to prioritize preventive care this month. If you have a primary care provider, schedule your annual exam and ask about heart health screening. If you do not have a provider, the department’s Clinical Services team offers blood pressure checks, cholesterol screening, diabetes testing and support for quitting tobacco, along with referrals for ongoing care. The clinic can be reached at 828-885.
The moments that matter most, including time with loved ones, personal milestones and everyday routines, depend on your health.
Make the appointment. Know your numbers. If you smoke, take the first step toward quitting.
Protect your heart. It could save your life.
