February 5, 2025 / Niki Elliott

February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart disease prevention and raise awareness about cardiovascular health. At Baltimore Medical System (BMS), we are committed to providing affordable healthcare in Baltimore and educating our community on ways to prevent heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
Why American Heart Month Matters
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., affecting millions of people. Many risk factors, such as high cholesterol, hypertension (high blood pressure), obesity, diabetes, and smoking, can be managed with the right lifestyle changes and medical care. By increasing awareness and taking action, we can reduce the number of preventable heart-related illnesses in our community.
Heart Health Facts
- 1 in 5 deaths in the U.S. is caused by heart disease.
- Someone in the U.S. has a heart attack every 40 seconds.
- Up to 80% of heart disease cases are preventable through healthy lifestyle changes and regular screenings.
6 Ways to Improve Your Heart Health
At Baltimore Medical System, we encourage our patients to take simple yet effective steps to improve their cardiovascular health:
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Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Avoiding processed foods, high sodium, and added sugars can also reduce heart disease risk. -
Stay Active
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Activities like walking, cycling, or dancing can strengthen your heart and improve overall cardiovascular fitness. -
Quit Smoking
Smoking increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. If you need help quitting, Baltimore Medical System can help support your journey to better health. -
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. Practicing mindfulness, yoga, or meditation can help lower stress levels and improve your well-being. -
Know Your Numbers
Regular check-ups at Baltimore Medical System health centers can help you monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels—key indicators of heart health. Early detection of any issues allows for better management and prevention. -
Get Enough Sleep
Poor sleep is linked to high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease. Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal heart health.
Get Heart Healthy with Baltimore Medical System
At Baltimore Medical System, we provide affordable primary care, chronic disease management, and health screenings to help our patients maintain heart health. Our providers offer high-quality healthcare in Baltimore, ensuring that every patient receives personalized care.
This American Heart Month, take a step toward a healthier heart by scheduling a check-up at one of our Baltimore community health centers. Let’s work together to prevent heart disease and build a healthier future!
📅 Find a health center near you and schedule your appointment today! Call us at 443-703-3600 to learn more.
Your heart matters. Let’s protect it together.