“More than 5 million Americans currently have heart failure, a number that increases every year,” says Dr. Jay Pandhi, a cardiologist affiliated with Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center. “What we know is that age and a sedentary lifestyle increase this risk even more.”
While the incidence of heart failure can be reduced by regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, the American Heart Association anticipates a 46% increase in new cases by 2030.
Risk factors of heart failure include:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Being overweight
- Poor diet and lack of physical activity
While the study analyzed a small group of individuals, it does reinforce the fact we already know — moderate and consistent exercise is good for our hearts.
Heart-healthy exercises include:
- Walking or running
- Jumping jacks
- Standing up and sitting down from a chair
- Walking up and down stairs
For the news media: To talk with Dr. Jay Pandhi about the link between exercise and heart health for an upcoming story, contact Erica Carlson, senior public relations specialist, at erica.carlson@sharp.com.
