The USPS Benefits and Wellness team wants employees to know how they can help prevent vascular disease.
The vascular system is the body’s network of blood vessels. It includes arteries, veins and capillaries.
Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to tissues and organs. Veins carry the blood and waste products back to the heart. Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that connect small arteries to small veins.
Vascular disease includes any condition that affects the circulatory system — including diseases of the arteries, veins and lymph vessels, as well as blood disorders that affect circulation.
Vascular disease can be caused by genetics, infection, injury, medications (including hormones), high cholesterol and high blood pressure. In some cases, the cause is unknown.
You can help prevent vascular disease by making healthy lifestyle changes such as eating better, getting exercise and controlling your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol.
The American Heart Association’s website has more information on heart health.
