February marks RedFeb, an annual initiative by Heart Research Australia that encourages individuals to wear red in support of heart health awareness and research.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia, yet many risk factors can be managed through lifestyle choices and regular health monitoring.

Northern Health Heart Failure Nurse Practitioner, Vikki Hannah, says “we need to focus on movement and exercise, healthy eating, monitoring of general health including cholesterol, blood pressure, weight, blood sugar levels, mental health and reducing stress.”

Heart Research Australia recommends simple steps to a Healthy Heart – The “4M’s”

• Move: Staying active at any age helps maintain heart function, reduces blood pressure, and improves overall wellbeing. Regular exercise can also prevent conditions like dementia and muscle loss later in life.
• Meals: A balanced, nutrient rich diet plays a crucial role in heart health. Choosing whole foods over processed options can help manage cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
• Measurement: Regularly tracking key health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and waist circumference is essential for early detection and prevention of heart disease.
• Mental wellness: Stress, anxiety, and depression can negatively impact heart health. Maintaining positive social connections, managing stress, and prioritising mental wellbeing all contribute to a healthier heart.

While some factors like age and family history cannot be changed, most heart attacks and strokes can be prevented by adopting healthier habits.

“Despite the rising number of people having heart attacks without traditional risk factors, there is hope in prevention. By making healthy choices and staying informed, we can protect our hearts and the hearts of those we care about,” Ms Hannah adds.

Movement and exercise, intelligent choice of meals, measurement of key health indicators and mental wellness through prioritising a positive mindset and social connection (the 4M approach) form a concise and effective framework to managing heart health before and after serious illness, at any age.

For more information on RedFeb, visit www.heartresearch.com.au/redfeb.

Featured Image: Cardiology Team, Northern Health.