January 28, 2013

Mangano and Eisenstein Designate February as “American Heart Month”

Mineola, NY – Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and County Health Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein announced February as American Heart Month in an effort to heighten public awareness of cardiovascular disease and encourage residents to make heart-healthy choices.

“American Heart Month is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about heart disease and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle” said County Executive Mangano. “Nassau County provides countless recreational opportunities for county residents of all ages to enjoy; including swimming at the aquatic center at Eisenhower Park, ice skating at Christopher Morley Park, nature trails at Muttontown Preserve, family activities at Nickerson Beach, beautiful playgrounds, beaches and golf courses. I urge our residents to take advantage of the recreational opportunities that exist throughout the county.”

“The chance of developing heart disease can be reduced by taking steps to prevent and control factors that put people at greater risk,” said County Health Commissioner Lawrence Eisenstein, M.D. “I encourage all of our residents to adopt a healthy lifestyle and to discuss with their healthcare provider their risk factors for developing heart disease and steps they can take to lower them.”

County Executive Mangano and Health Commissioner Eisenstein offer the following tips to help reduce the risk of heart disease:

• Eat a healthy diet. Choosing healthful meal and snack options can help you avoid heart disease and its complications. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.  Eating foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber can help prevent high blood cholesterol. Limiting salt or sodium in your diet can also lower your blood pressure.
• Maintain a healthy weight and be active. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for heart disease. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure. The Surgeon General recommends that adults should engage in moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes each day.
• Don't smoke. Cigarette smoking greatly increases your risk for heart disease. If you don't smoke, don't start. If you do smoke, quitting will lower your risk for heart disease.
• Get regular health checkups.  Regular health screenings can identify, control and manage conditions such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

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