Taking The Bite Out of Heart Disease

More than one-third of all American adults suffer from cardiovascular disease in one form or another. Heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, and stroke continue to take more lives than any other cause of death, and collectively cardiovascular services represent an immense burden on our healthcare resources.

Heart health goes to the dogs

Fortunately, the ongoing efforts of researchers and clinical care providers are leading to new insights and innovations in effective prevention and treatment of heart disease. This includes the recent finding that dog ownership goes hand in paw with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and a lower overall mortality rate.

Life’s Simple 7 steps to heart health

The further positive news is that current trends in the data indicate a projected reduction of 30% from 2010 to 2020 in coronary heart disease deaths. This major progress is supported by the American Heart Association’s campaign to promote a program called Life’s Simple 7, which focuses on essential health behaviors and risk factors.

  1. Be physically active on a regular basis.
  2. Maintain a healthy weight level.
  3. Learn and manage cholesterol levels.
  4. Avoid smoking and use of smokeless tobacco.
  5. Stick to a diet of heart-healthy food choices.
  6. Maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
  7. Be aware of diabetes and blood sugar.

Making connections in cardiac care

It’s easy to see connections between the lifestyle choices outlined in the Life’s Simple 7 program and the health benefits of dog ownership. These connections are emphasized by a cross-section of complementary research into cardiorespiratory fitness and studies that indicate the value of meditation in maintaining heart health.

The unconditional love and companionship of a furry, four-legged exercise buddy is good for your heart in more ways than one. We didn’t need the research to tell us that, but it’s nice to have the evidence to back it up.

Interim Director Cardiovascular Services

NHS Solutions regularly has openings for Interim Nurse Leaders in the role of Cardiovascular Director. Give us a call today and talk with the best client managers in the business about an interim opportunity that’s just right for you.

Accessibility Toolbar