Wayne Salter, Health and Human Services Commissioner | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Wayne Salter, Health and Human Services Commissioner | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
February is recognized as American Heart Month, focusing on raising awareness about heart disease and its prevention, as highlighted by North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS).
In 2023, heart disease continued to be the leading cause of death in North Dakota. During the same year, 31.1% of adults in the state reported being informed by a healthcare provider that they had high blood pressure. Both high blood pressure and high cholesterol are significant risk factors for heart disease but often go unnoticed or are not properly managed.
Blood pressure can be checked by a healthcare provider, at many pharmacies, or using a home blood pressure monitor. The American Heart Association defines normal blood pressure as less than 120/80 mmHg and recommends regular screenings starting at age 20.
While the risks to heart health increase with age, it is crucial for adults of all ages to be aware of their blood pressure levels.
Lifestyle changes can help reduce high blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Some recommended tips include staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients, quitting commercial tobacco use including smoking and vaping, and limiting alcohol consumption along with energy drinks that are high in caffeine.
North Dakota Medicaid encourages its members to know their blood pressure and cholesterol numbers and schedule an annual wellness checkup with their healthcare provider.
For more information on preventing heart disease and stroke, visit hhs.nd.gov/health/community/nd-heart-disease-stroke-prevention or contact a healthcare provider or community pharmacist.
NDQuits offers free coaching to assist North Dakotans in becoming healthier by quitting all commercial tobacco products such as cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, electronic or vape devices, among others. For personalized support from NDQuits call (800) QUIT-NOW or (800) 784-8669.
Programs like SNAP and WIC also help low-income families access healthy foods. More details can be found at hhs.nd.gov/food-programs.
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