Think you will have a heart attack or stroke in the next five years? Well, of course, at 50, my chances are a lot greater than yours. But even young adults can be at risk. Is your cholesterol elevated? How about your blood pressure? Do you smoke?
Visit this link to try out a risk calculator for yourself
Ok, maybe you are reading this in the RPAC, after your intense daily workout, your pleasing weigh-in, and your fruit-n-bran smoothie. If you are already doing the things you should, maybe you can spread the word to the people you care about. (Think – Mom, Dad, Grandpa, Aunt, Neighbor, Friend):
Launched by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services with several key partners, Million Hearts aims to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes over the next five years.
The first goal is to empower Americans to make healthy choices such as preventing tobacco use and reducing sodium and “trans” fat consumption. This can reduce the number of people who need medical treatment such as blood pressure or cholesterol medications to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
The second goal is improving care for people who do need treatment by encouraging a targeted focus on the “ABCS“
- Aspirin for people at risk,
- Blood pressure control,
- Cholesterol management and
- Smoking cessation
These four items address the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease and can help to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
If you want to learn more about your health and your heart attack and stroke risk, stop in at the Student Wellness Center, or come see us at Student Health. We have the expertise and are here on campus for you.
Students First!
Roger Miller, MD (OSU Student Health Services)