February is American Heart Month, and unfortunately, most of us know someone who has had heart disease or stroke. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; one in every three deaths is from heart disease and stroke, equal to 2,200 deaths per day. These conditions are also leading causes of disability preventing people from working and enjoying family activities.

Heart disease and stroke affects all of our lives, but we can all play a role in ending it. Prevention starts with everyone. Protect yourself and your loved ones from heart disease and stroke by understanding the risks and taking these steps.

Drive the initiative by challenging your family and friends to take the Million Hearts™ pledge at www.millionhearts.hhs.gov.

Get up and get active by being physically active for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.

Know your “ABCS”:

Ask your doctor if you should take an Aspirin every day.

Find out if you have high Blood pressure or Cholesterol, and if you do, get effective treatment.

If you Smoke, get help to quit.

Make your calories count by eating a heart-healthy diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and low in sodium and trans fat.

Take control of your heart health by following your doctor's prescription instructions.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.