Happy Valentine’s Day! Today is a time we set aside to express our love for those near and dear to us through gifts or acts of kindness. Although February is often thought of as the month for romance, it has also been designated for American Heart Month. Sadly, we all know someone who has suffered from a heart attack or a stroke. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The good news is that heart disease can be prevented through changing the way we eat, increasing our physical activity and eliminating tobacco use.
In communities throughout Central Ohio, the Y is a leading force on health and well-being. Through our commitment to strengthening the community through healthy living, we help to ensure that children, adults and families live
a healthy, happy and longer life. In an effort to bring awareness to this chronic disease on
a national level, the Y has partnered with the CDC by participating in their Million Hearts campaign. Launched in 2011 by the Department of Health and Human Services, this initiative seeks to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes over the next five years.
As part of our commitment to increase awareness of this disease, the YMCA of Central Ohio offers many community-based healthy living and chronic disease prevention initiatives. At the Y we believe that being healthy means more than simply being physically active. It’s about maintaining a balanced spirit, mind and body. One of the ways to reduce your risk of developing heart disease is through regular and daily exercise and weight loss. Our 12 locations offer a variety of physical fitness classes and facility amenities, but beyond that we provide educational programs that empower our members to make healthier decisions.
Through our commitment to the Million Hearts initiative, the Y has pledged to increase the availability of the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program. This initiative helps those at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes adopt and maintain a healthier lifestyle to reduce their chances of developing the disease. Type 2 diabetes is also a major risk factor for heart disease. In fact, people who have diabetes are twice as likely to have cardiovascular disease or a stroke.
So this Valentine’s Day, as you exchange candy, cards and flowers with your loved ones, don’t forget about the most important part of them -- their heart. Show them you care by talking to them about ways they can protect their heart to live a healthier and longer life. You owe it to yourself, your family and your community!
To find a Y near you or to learn about ways to strengthen your heart, visit: www.ymcacolumbus.org.
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