In conjunction with National Heart Health Month in February, Brand New Day, a California Medicare Advantage plan, is doing its part to educate the public about the facts and myths associated with America’s #1 killer. Myths include that only old people be concerned.
Heart disease is only an old person’s concern. No use giving up a lifelong habit of smoking…it’s just too late and too much damage has already been done. Why start exercising now, it’s not going to do any good as one ages. These are some of the myths held by many Americans. With February being National Heart Health Month, experts at Brand New Day, a California Medicare Advantage health plan, say that the public should be armed with the latest facts to stay heart healthy.
“A whopping 25% of all deaths in the United States can be attributed to cardiac disease,” says Brand New Day Medical Director Michael Tehrani “As healthcare professionals, it is important for us to impart our knowledge to the public to reduce their chances of succumbing to America’s number one killer.”
Among the myths associated with heart disease:
MYTH
Heart disease is an older person’s problem.
FACT
Heart disease can strike anyone at any age despite appearances that might suggest otherwise. Those with a family history of the condition are more at risk than others as are those with Type 2 diabetes and those with poor dietary habits that can clog the arteries.
MYTH
Heart disease affects mostly men.
FACT
Every year since 1984, deaths from heart disease in women have surpassed that of men. In the year after a heart attack, women are 28% more likely to die than men.
MYTH
Those with heart disease should take it easy.
FACT
For the vast majority of those affected, being sedentary can lead to blood clots and overall physical decline while staying active has proven to improve overall health and well-being.
MYTH
It’s useless for long-time smokers to give up the habit as the damage has already been done.
FACT
The benefits of quitting smoking start the minute one quits, no matter the age, how long the individual has smoked or how many cigarettes a day they’ve smoked. Only one year after quitting, one's risk of heart attack will drop by 50% and in 10 years, it will be the same as if the person never smoked.
MYTH
Those with heart disease should stop eating fatty foods.
FACT
While It's true that eating a diet low in saturated fat (especially hydrogenated and trans fats) is beneficial, there are some forms of fat like those found in vegetable oil, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids and unsalted nuts that can actually lower the risk of heart disease.
MYTH
Avoid exercise after having a heart attack.
FACT
Research shows that heart attack survivors who engage in moderate-intensity activities including walking, jogging, bike riding and swimming live longer than those who don’t, though one should consult their doctor before embarking on such a program.
Brand New Day works with independent brokers throughout the state and can arrange for an in-person appointment for those wanting to review the plans in their area. Brand New Day is a subsidiary of Bright HealthCare and Bright Health Group. For more information about the Brand New Day Medicare Advantage plans, call (866) 255-4795 and visit www.BNDHMO.com .
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