February is American Heart Month, a time to learn how to prevent heart disease and make healthy choices.
Heart disease is responsible for about 1 in 4 deaths in the United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This makes the disease a leading cause of death among both men and women.
Here’s an overview of some terms commonly associated with heart disease:
• Cardiovascular disease. This umbrella term describes diseases that affect the heart, including heart disease and coronary heart disease. More than 800,000 people die of cardiovascular disease each year.
• Heart disease. More than 600,000 people in the United States die from this type of cardiovascular disease each year.
• Coronary heart disease. This disease, also known as atherosclerosis or clogged arteries, occurs when plaque builds up in your arteries. About 360,000 people in the United States died from coronary heart disease in 2015.
The Wellness LiteBlue page has more information, including resources for employees who want to live healthier lifestyles.