Heart Health - Go Red for Women Day
February 6 is Go Red for Women Day
Key Numbers to Know for Your Heart Health
Blood Pressure:
WHAT IS IT?
It’s the force of blood against the arteries when the heart beats and rests.
HOW DOES IT AFFECT YOUR HEALTH?
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a condition in which the heart has to work harder than normal to pump blood. It typically has no noticeable symptoms, but if it goes untreated, it can scar and damage the arteries, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
It’s important to have your blood pressure checked at least once a year, but regular monitoring at home is also recommended. Take two readings in the morning and two in the evening to get a more accurate picture of your levels.
WHAT'S A HEALTHY NUMBER?
Blood pressure readings below 120/80 mm Hg are considered to be within the normal range for non‑pregnant individuals.
Blood Sugar:
WHAT IS IT?
It’s the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood.
HOW DOES IT AFFECT YOUR HEALTH?
High blood glucose, also known as hyperglycemia, increases the risk of developing insulin resistance, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes. If diabetes goes untreated, it can lead to serious medical complications, including heart disease and stroke.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Get your blood sugar levels checked with a simple blood test.
WHAT'S A HEALTHY NUMBER?
A normal and healthy range for a fasting blood glucose level is lower than 100 mg/dl.
Total Cholesterol:
WHAT IS IT?
It’s a soft, fat-like substance found in the blood and in all the body’s cells.
HOW DOES IT AFFECT YOUR HEALTH?
When cholesterol accumulates on the inner walls of your arteries over time, it hardens and forms plaque. This buildup increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and stroke. High cholesterol typically has no symptoms, which makes regular screening especially important.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Get your cholesterol checked with a blood test called a lipid profile. A healthcare provider will collect a sample either by drawing blood from your arm or using a simple finger prick.
WHAT'S A HEALTHY NUMBER?
Discuss with your doctor what healthy numbers are for you.
Body Mass Index (BMI):
WHAT IS IT?
It’s a numerical value of your weight in relation to your height.
HOW DOES IT AFFECT YOUR HEALTH?
Carrying excess body fat—especially around the waist—increases the risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Weigh yourself regularly and understand your BMI. If you’re overweight or obese, you can lower your risk of heart disease by losing excess weight and maintaining that loss through healthy eating and regular physical activity.
WHAT'S A HEALTHY NUMBER?
A person’s ideal body weight varies based on gender, age, height, and body frame. A recommended healthy BMI range is 18.6 to 24.9, with a waist measurement of no more than 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men. To explore these ranges further, visit heart.org/bmi.