Know Your Heart. Protect Your Life.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States — but up to 80% of cardiovascular events are preventable. Here's what you need to know.
The Silent Epidemic in Our Communities
Every year, about 695,000 Americans die from heart disease — one in every five deaths. Black Americans are disproportionately affected, dying from heart disease at higher rates than any other racial group. Yet heart disease is largely preventable through early detection, lifestyle changes, and access to care. The Supper covers heart health through a public health lens: the risk factors, the screenings that save lives, and the community resources that make prevention possible for everyone — not just those with premium insurance.
The Six Major Risk Factors
High Blood Pressure
Hypertension affects nearly half of American adults and is the single biggest risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Many people have it without knowing.
High Cholesterol
High LDL cholesterol builds up in artery walls and restricts blood flow. It has no symptoms — a simple blood test is the only way to know.
Diabetes & Prediabetes
People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease. Over 96 million Americans have prediabetes and most don't know it.
Smoking
Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces oxygen in the blood, and significantly raises the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Obesity
Excess weight strains the heart, raises blood pressure and cholesterol, and increases the risk of diabetes — all major heart disease contributors.
Physical Inactivity
A sedentary lifestyle is an independent risk factor for heart disease. Even modest increases in daily movement reduce risk significantly.
Recommended Heart Health Screenings
| Test | How Often |
|---|---|
Blood Pressure Check | At least once a year |
Cholesterol Panel (Lipid Panel) | Every 4–6 years (more often if at risk) |
Blood Glucose / A1C Test | Every 3 years starting at age 35 (or earlier if overweight) |
BMI & Waist Circumference | Annually |
Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Chest pain or pressure
A feeling of tightness, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest.
Shortness of breath
Can occur with or without chest discomfort, even at rest.
Pain in the upper body
Discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Nausea, lightheadedness, or cold sweat
More common in women, who may experience atypical symptoms without classic chest pain.
If you or someone near you experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.
Heart Health Resources
American Heart Association
Comprehensive heart health education, risk calculators, and a provider finder at heart.org.
CDC Heart Disease Resources
Data, prevention guides, and community health programs from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Million Hearts Initiative
A national initiative to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes — includes free resources for patients and providers.
Find a cardiologist or primary care doctor near you:
Stay informed. Your heart depends on it.
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