February is recognized as American Heart Month, focusing on heart disease awareness and prevention, according to North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS).
In 2023, heart disease was the leading cause of death in North Dakota. That year, 31.1% of adults in the state were informed by healthcare providers that they had high blood pressure. High blood pressure and cholesterol are significant risk factors for heart disease but often remain unnoticed or improperly managed.
Blood pressure can be checked by healthcare providers, at many pharmacies, or with a home monitor. The American Heart Association considers normal blood pressure to be less than 120/80 mmHg and suggests regular screenings from age 20.
Though heart health risks increase with age, it’s crucial for all adults to be aware of their blood pressure levels.
Lifestyle changes can help reduce high blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Recommendations include staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, quitting tobacco use, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake.
North Dakota Medicaid encourages members to know their blood pressure and cholesterol numbers and schedule annual wellness checkups with healthcare providers.
For more information, visit hhs.nd.gov/health/community/nd-heart-disease-stroke-prevention or contact a healthcare provider or community pharmacist.
NDQuits offers free coaching to help North Dakotans quit commercial tobacco products. For support, call NDQuits at (800) QUIT-NOW or (800) 784-8669.
SNAP and WIC assist low-income families in accessing healthy foods. More details are available at hhs.nd.gov/food-programs.
