Caring For Your Heart
Why are Veterans at a Higher Risk of Heart Disease?
The prevalence of heart diseases among veterans is a significant concern, as veterans may face unique risk factors related to their military service and experiences. While precise prevalence figures can vary depending on factors such as age, deployment history, and underlying health conditions, several studies and data sources provide insight into the prevalence of heart diseases among veterans:
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): CVD encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), CVD is the leading cause of mortality among veterans in the VA healthcare system.
Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD): IHD, which includes conditions such as heart attacks and angina, is one of the most prevalent forms of heart disease among veterans. Veterans exposed to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service may be eligible for VA benefits related to IHD, as these exposures link to an increased risk of the condition.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Hypertension is a common risk factor for heart disease and is prevalent among veterans. According to the VA, hypertension affects a significant portion of the veteran population, particularly among older veterans.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Mental Health: PTSD and other mental health conditions are prevalent among veterans and can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. Veterans with PTSD may have higher rates of smoking, alcohol use, and other unhealthy behaviors that can exacerbate cardiovascular risk.
Agent Orange Exposure: Veterans who served in Vietnam exposed to Agent Orange may have an increased risk of developing heart disease, among other health conditions. The VA provides healthcare and benefits to eligible veterans with service-connected illnesses related to Agent Orange exposure.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): TBI, which can result from blast injuries or other combat-related incidents, may also contribute to an increased risk of heart disease among veterans.
Access to Healthcare: Access to healthcare services, including preventive care and management of chronic conditions, can impact the prevalence and outcomes of heart disease among veterans. The VA provides comprehensive healthcare services to eligible veterans, including preventive screenings and treatment for heart disease.
Overall, the prevalence of heart diseases among veterans underscores the importance of comprehensive healthcare services, early detection, and management of risk factors, as well as ongoing research and support to address the unique needs of the veteran population.
How to care for your heart
Caring for your heart involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits and making choices that promote cardiovascular health. Here are some key strategies to help you take care of your heart:
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (such as fish, poultry, beans, and legumes), and healthy fats (like those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil). Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and foods high in saturated and trans fats.
Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise each week. Incorporate brisk walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, or dancing into your routine. Additionally, include strength training exercises at least twice a week to help maintain muscle mass and improve overall fitness.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Strive to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through balanced eating and regular physical activity. Excess weight, especially around the waistline, can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your heart health. Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Support from friends, family, or healthcare professionals is important to help you quit successfully.
Limit Alcohol Intake: Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can raise blood pressure, contribute to weight gain, and increase the risk of heart disease. If you choose to, drink in moderation. For adults, this means up to one drink per day for women and two for men only.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health by raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart disease. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy.
Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours sleep each night. Lack of or poor sleep can contribute to high blood pressure, weight gain, and other risk factors for heart disease. A relaxing bedtime routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and prioritizing getting enough restful sleep need to be established.
Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels: Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as high blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors for heart disease. Keep to your healthcare provider's recommendations for monitoring and managing these levels through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions as needed.
Stay Active and Engaged: Stay socially connected with friends, family, and community groups to promote emotional well-being and reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness. Engage in activities that bring joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose to support overall mental and emotional health.
Follow Healthcare Provider's Recommendations: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, discuss your heart health goals and concerns, and follow their recommendations for preventive screenings, vaccinations, and treatment plans to maintain optimal heart health.
By incorporating these heart-healthy habits into your daily routine, you can ensure long-term health and functioning of your cardiovascular system and reduce the risk of heart disease and related complications.
