Embrace the red: February heart health awareness

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) proudly endorses Heart Health Month this February, urging the local community to ‘embrace the red’ and unite against heart disease.

In addition to encouraging people to wear red and contribute, Heart Research Australia is raising awareness during REDFEB about how Australians can take control of their cardiovascular wellbeing.

MPHN Acting CEO Narelle Mills said it was important for the community to take proactive steps towards better health.

‘People living in the Murrumbidgee are more likely to have heart disease compared to the national average,’ Ms Mills said.

‘We’re encouraging everyone in our region to prioritise their heart health. Book a check-up with your GP and discuss ways you can be proactive in protecting your heart against disease.’

Regular heart health check-ups with your GP can help you understand your risk of a heart attack or stroke, and your GP and nurse can support you in lowering this risk. The Heart Foundation recommends an annual heart health check for everyone aged 45 and older, people with diabetes from 35 years, and First Nations people from 30 years.

According to Heart Research Australia, eight out of ten cases of premature heart disease can be prevented through simple, budget-friendly lifestyle choices.

Preventing heart attacks and strokes is possible through healthy behaviours, such as adopting a heart-healthy eating pattern, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and being smoke-free. Many people may not be aware of their risk of developing heart disease, especially since risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol are often not felt.

Maintaining a heart-healthy diet involves focusing on affordable staples such as beans, lentils, whole grains, and vegetables, while avoiding processed foods, sugary snacks, and fast food. Research shows that consuming five or more vegetables every day reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by almost 17 per cent.

Physical activity is also crucial for heart health. Consider free or low-cost options like walking, jogging, or home workouts. Gardening and household tasks can contribute to staying active while saving money.

Ms Mills encouraged the Murrumbidgee community to use ‘REDFEB’ as a call to action.

‘Together we can raise awareness, support one another, and work towards a future where heart disease is no longer a leading cause of concern in our region.’

For more information, visit heartresearch.com.au