It is a term used to describe several heart problems including
hypertension, high cholesterol, heart failure and arrhythmias
(irregular heart rhythms), which may increase a person’s risk
for heart attack or stroke. Each year, cardiovascular disease
leads to over 600,000 deaths in our country and this number
continues to rise. As a pharmacist, I am constantly faced with
the challenge of educating my patients on the importance of
prevention and proper management with medications, exercise and
a proper diet. Although the thought of heart disease can be
frightening, I try to remind my patients of simple steps that
can be taken to prevent or manage heart disease. During American
Heart Month, I challenge each of you to take a few moments to
think about your own lifestyles and risk factors for heart
disease. While certain risk factors such as age or family
history cannot be controlled, others can. Be honest with
yourself and your daily choices. Are you exercising regularly
and choosing heart-healthy foods such as fr