Heart Health and CPR Pushed for Families
With February being National Heart Month, health experts are urging families to focus on cardiovascular wellness. In a recent podcast, Dr. Krishna Velikapudi reminded listeners that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. and that learning CPR can triple survival rates for cardiac arrest.
In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds, and a person dies from cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds. Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease, responsible for the deaths of 371,506 people in 2022. More than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of a hospital setting in the U.S. each year. The vast majority of these, about 70%, happen at home. Without immediate CPR, the survival rate for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is less than 10%. For Fremont residents, CPR and first-aid certification courses are available through providers like the American Red Cross, Safety Training Seminars, and Cintas. These organizations offer a variety of formats, including in-person, online, and blended learning options to fit busy family schedules. Many provide same-day certification. For those not seeking full certification, free online resources can teach the essentials of hands-only CPR in minutes. The American Heart Association and the American Red Cross offer short video tutorials that demonstrate the correct technique for chest compressions, which can be just as effective as conventional CPR in the first few minutes of an adult cardiac arrest. Incorporating heart-healthy habits into a family routine can be both affordable and manageable. Budget-friendly meals can include dishes like vegetable baked ziti, vegetarian sloppy joes, or chicken and zucchini, which utilize simple, low-cost ingredients. Focusing on whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables is key. Family fitness doesn't require a gym membership. Activities like a living room dance party, creating a backyard obstacle course with household items, or playing fitness-based games like a "Simon Says" with exercises can get everyone moving. Local parks and trails in and around Fremont also offer opportunities for family walks, bike rides, and active games. Managing heart health also involves understanding and controlling risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol. Resources for Alameda County residents are available through organizations like the Alameda Alliance for Health, which provides health education classes and materials on heart-healthy living. Even with a family history of heart disease, lifestyle choices can make a significant impact. The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise for adults each week. Simple changes, like taking the stairs, gardening, or going for regular walks, all contribute to a healthier heart.
