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Cardiovascular Disease & Stroke Prevention Programs
Kansas is working hard to bring more heart health programming and practices to your area. You may notice your doctors, nurses, community health workers, pharmacists and community organizations teaming up to connect you with the tools you need to meet your health goals through medical intervention and lifestyle change.
- Pharmacists are connecting with other health care providers to ensure you have the best medication management possible.
- Community health workers and nurses are providing education on how you can take your own blood pressure and connecting you to valuable community resources for heart health.
- Community organizations and clinics are offering classes and coaching on positive changes you can make to lower your risk of heart disease or manage your medical condition.
These are just a few of the many ways Kansas is connecting to provide you with the tools you need to keep your heart healthy!
Small Steps to Healthy Hearts
Eighty percent of heart disease is preventable. You can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke with healthy habits and by taking control of your health care. Connect with lifestyle change programs that support you in taking the lead with your medical needs.
While family history, genetics, and limited access to resources can put you at risk for certain heart and stroke conditions, there are many ways to offset these.
Eat Well
What you put into your body has an impact on your heart health. Eat low-sodium, healthy meals rich in whole, unprocessed foods. The Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is one way Kansas is helping seniors access local fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also learn how to read nutrition labels and follow serving size recommendations.
When it comes to alcohol, have 1 drink for women and 2 drinks for men or less per day. Check with a local clinic or community center to see what other nutrition programs are available.
Be Active
Exercise can make your heart stronger, reduce stress, and lower your blood pressure. Stay physically active and maintain a healthy body weight. Get Active Kansas and Walk With Ease are local initiatives to get Kansans moving.
Control Stress
Stress can cause increases in blood pressure and heart rate. Manage your stress by practicing mindfulness or meditation. Take breaks during your daily routines to practice deep breathing.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is a major cause of heart attack and stroke. KanQuit is here to help you quit vaping, smoking, chewing or dipping tobacco.
Visit Doctor
Work together with your health care provider to prevent or treat any medical conditions that lead to heart disease. Discuss treatment plans you are on and lifestyle modifications you can make.
Get Screened
High cholesterol can make it hard for blood to travel through your body, increasing your risk for heart disease and stroke. Ask your health care provider about having your cholesterol checked at your annual visit. If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol or have a family history, you may need to check more frequently.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can cause your heart to work too hard, causing damage. Check and record your blood pressure regularly and remember to share your results with a health care provider or clinic.
You can easily track your blood pressure with a printable Blood Pressure Tracker. Clinics and community organizations, learn more about our Healthy Heart Ambassador Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program.
Prescription Management
Health Heart Ambassadors Informational (PDF)
Take medications as prescribed. Ask your local pharmacy how they can help you manage your prescriptions, and talk with your pharmacist when you pick up a new medication.
Diabetes Management
Uncontrolled diabetes can put you at greater risk for heart disease. Take the risk test to learn your risk for prediabetes, then talk to your doctor about getting tested, if needed. If you already have diabetes, keep close track of your blood sugar levels.