Heart decorations popping up for Valentine’s Day in February may also serve as a reminder that it is also American Heart Month. February is when everyone, especially women, are encouraged to focus on their cardiovascular health. 

Cardiovascular diseases are often thought of as something that mainly affects men, but they are just as common in women. The symptoms of cardiovascular diseases often differ between men and women. For instance, while men might feel chest pain during a heart attack, women could have pain in their jaw, neck, or back. Unfortunately, because people do not expect women to have heart attacks, they often ignore these symptoms, leading to unnoticed heart problems.

Heart disease is still the #1 cause of death for men and women. This year, the American Heart Association is celebrating 100 years of “Bold Hearts” and a vision for advancing health and hope for everyone everywhere. This month reminds everyone to take care of their hearts.

Please visit www.heart.org for more information on ways to learn more about heart attack and stroke symptoms and healthy living practices.