A post by our participant Nuzhat Karim Himi, Enjoy!

As cardiovascular disease is America’s No. 1 killer, the month of February has been proclaimed American Heart Month. According to the American Heart Association, each year, heart disease kills more than 6,000 women in the 35-to-44 age range, and 10,000 women between the ages of 29 and 44 have a heart attack, in the US.

Heart Shape, Source: Wikipedia

I came across this personal heart health assessment in a magazine published by CVS Pharmacy a few days ago. As we celebrate American Heart Month, I thought that filling out this evaluation would be a good way to get jump started on starting to take care of our hearts. Knowing how much we are at risk, will make us more aware of the possible outcomes and find out ways for early detection and prevention.

The more boxes you check in this evaluation, the greater your risk for heart disease. If you check more than 3 boxes, you should see your doctor to review the results and schedule a complete medical evaluation.

Medical History

â–¡ I have family history of heart disease, heart attack and/or stroke, especially in female members under age 65 or male members under age 55.

â–¡ I have had a heart attack or currently have coronary heart disease.

â–¡ I have had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA.)

Doctor Visit

â–¡ I have not had a medical checkup in the past 12 months.

â–¡ I have had a medical checkup in the past 12 months, but I don’t know my blood pressure, cholesterol or glucose readings.

Age and Gender

â–¡ I am a woman over 50.

â–¡ I am past menopause or have had my ovaries removed.

â–¡ I am a man over 45.

Blood Pressure

â–¡ My blood pressure is 130/80 or higher.

â–¡ I am taking medication to lower my blood pressure.

â–¡ I don’t know what my blood pressure is.

Cholesterol

â–¡ My total cholesterol is 200 or higher.

â–¡ My LDL (bad) cholesterol is 130 or higher.

â–¡ My HDL (good) cholesterol is less than 40.

â–¡ My triglyceride level is over 150.

â–¡ I am taking medication to lower my cholesterol.

â–¡ I don’t know what my cholesterol levels are.

Diabetes

â–¡ I have diabetes.

â–¡ I don’t know what my blood glucose level is.

â–¡ I am always thirsty, and I eat constantly and urinate frequently.

Diet

â–¡ I eat a diet high in calories, salt, saturated fat, trans fat and/or cholesterol.

Physical Activity

â–¡ I get less than 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days.

â–¡ I experience pressure/tightness in my chest or pain/cramping in my legs, thighs or buttocks during physical activities.

Smoking

â–¡ I am regularly exposed to second hand smoking.

â–¡ I currently smoke or I quit smoking within the past 5 years.

Weight

â–¡ My body mass index (BMI) is higher than 25.

You can figure out your BMI by using the following calculation. (Please know that this formula doesn’t take into account your gender, activity level and other important considerations. This is an approximation. You should consult your doctor to find out your accurate BMI).

To determine your BMI

  1. Multiply your weight in pounds (lb) X 705.
  2. Divide that number by your height in inches.
  3. Divide that number by your height in inches again.
  4. Use the following chart to see how you tip the scale.

â–¡ If your BMI is less than 18.5, you are underweight.

â–¡ If your BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9, you have healthy weight.

â–¡ If your BMI is between 25 and 29.9, you are overweight.

â–¡ If your BMI is between 30 and 39.9, you are obese.

â–¡ If your BMI is 40 or higher, you are extremely obese.