Dr. Robert Baker

Awareness that heart disease is the leading killer among women is higher than it has ever been. Still, 80 percent of women between ages 40 and 60 have one or more risk factors that they have the power to modify, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes and inactivity.

Dr. Robert Baker, vice president of medical affairs at Managed Health Services in Indianapolis recommends Hoosier women follow these five tips to build heart-healthy homes for themselves and their loved ones:

Stop smoking and don’t start. Tobacco smoke increases the likelihood that arteries will harden, which restricts blood flow to the heart. Smokers are at least twice as likely to develop heart disease as non-smokers. Women who smoke and use birth control pills are at even greater risk. Exercise regularly. Regular exercise improves heart function and lowers both blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels. Women who maintain an active lifestyle have a significantly lower risk of developing heart disease and diabetes than those who do not.

Eat a heart-healthy diet. Diets low in fat, cholesterol and salt can help prevent heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. For healthier eating, women should choose foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess body fat greatly increases risk of heart disease, even if other risk factors don’t exist. Know the numbers. Abnormal blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar (glucose) ranges can be red flags for diabetes and heart disease. Women of all ages should have regular screenings and ask their health care provider what numbers are normal for their age.

“By making lifestyle changes themselves, women can lower their risk of heart disease and improve their overall physical and mental health,” Baker said. “Women have the power to reduce their risk of heart disease. The late 20s and early 30s is a critical time for women to take action to either reduce or eliminate their risk factors and set themselves up for a long, heart-healthy life.”