Understanding Heart Disease in Gilbert and Chandler

5 out of every 6 deaths from cardiovascular diseases are adults aged 65 or older.

While most people recognize February for Valentine’s Day, it is also American Heart Month. That is why we’re bringing awareness of heart disease to our community this month.

In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of almost every racial and ethnic group. Roughly 1 out of every 3 deaths will occur due to heart disease. In fact, one person dies every 34 seconds from a cardiovascular disease. It is also very expensive, with health care costs totaling over $150 billion each year.

Different Heart Diseases

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

• Is the most common type of heart disease.
• It kills hundreds of thousands of people each year.
• It is estimated that 1/20 adults over age 20 have CAD.

Heart Attack

• Someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds
• Roughly 1/4 heart attacks happen to people who have already had a heart attack
• About 1/5 heart attacks are silent – the person doesn’t know it happened, but the damage is done

Risk Factors

• High blood pressure
• High blood cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Unhealthy diet
• Physical inactivity
• Excessive alcohol consumption

How Can I Prevent Heart Disease?

There are many ways you can lower your risk of developing heart disease. Most are factors you can control, such as quitting smoking or drinking less.

Physical Activity: Make sure to get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. This can be done with brisk walking and other moderate-exertion activities. It is also recommended to get some strength exercises a few times a week. Exercises ideally would target all muscle groups.

Eat Healthy: To reduce your risk of heart disease, you should lessen your consumption of foods that are high in trans fats, saturated fats, sodium, added sugar, and red meat. Healthy options include fish, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, nuts, legumes, and seeds.

Know the Warning Signs: Being aware of the signs that you are experiencing a heart attack or stroke can be lifesaving. It allows you to seek immediate attention before it gets too late.

Local Resources

Heart Care Center of the Valley – They’re dedicated to providing comprehensive cardiology services and the highest quality patient care available in Gilbert and the Phoenix area.

Gilbert Cardiology – They proudly serve their community with the most comprehensive, specialized cardiac health care available

Heart Health Organization – The primary mission of the Heart Health Organization (H2O) is to offer high-quality, acute health care and preventive medical care to all people who live, work, and visit the Phoenix East Valley and its surrounding areas.

Chandler Cardiology Associates – They provide the most innovative and thorough care to their patients to help prevent cardiac events and to prolong life.

Griswold Can Help

If you or someone you care about is experiencing heart health challenges in Gilbert, Chandler, or the surrounding areas, Griswold is here to lend a hand. While we do not provide medical care, we offer in-home services such as personal care, homemaking, and companionship, all delivered by our qualified and compassionate Caregivers. Our mission is to create an environment where you feel safe and supported.

Whether you need just a few hours of help each week with respite care or full-time support through live-in care, we are dedicated to meeting your needs. We encourage you to reach out to us today to discuss how we can work together to develop a personalized care plan that suits your situation. In many instances, we can arrange for a Caregiver to be in your home within 24 hours. Let us help you find the support you deserve.