Taking small steps can protect your heart for life.

Words by June Allan Corrigan

Your heart rarely announces when something’s wrong. There may be no warnings, obvious symptoms, or reasons to think anything’s off. Yet heart disease can begin developing years before it becomes apparent. It’s the leading cause of death in the United States, making heart health something that deserves your attention.

Misconceptions add to the problem. Many people assume heart disease comes with age or recognizable signs. In reality, it can begin earlier and progress silently. The good news is many factors that influence heart health are within our control.

“Don’t guess about your heart health,” says DAP Health Director of Adult Medicine Dr. Damoun Rezai. “Just because you feel fine doesn’t mean everything is working as it should.”

High blood pressure and high cholesterol, for example, often have no indicators. If left untreated, both can increase your risk for heart disease and stroke.

Knowledge is power

High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer.” Globally, it affects one in four adults and accounts for about half of all heart disease- and stroke-related deaths. Many people don’t even know they have it. That’s where routine screenings play a role. After all, you can’t fix what you’re not aware of.

DAP Health’s preventive care focuses on personalized screenings and early detection. “Know and verify your heart situation with your primary doctor,” advises Rezai. Follow orders for lab tests, become familiar with your vitals, and know your family history. Many heart-related conditions can be treated before they become emergencies.

The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD), which usually comes from cholesterol plaque buildup inside arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart muscle itself.

Although cholesterol is essential for healthy body function, too much can lead to serious problems. Fortunately, high cholesterol is one of the most controllable risk factors for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

High cholesterol can be inherited, but it’s also linked to everyday habits, including too little physical activity, smoking, and an unhealthy diet.

Healthy heart habits

In America, someone dies from cardiovascular disease about every 34 seconds. Small changes can make a difference, and it’s never too early or too late to start. “Heart health is the basis of good health,” says Rezai. “It’s built through everyday habits.”

Start where you are and focus on changes that feel realistic for you. That might mean:

• Eating more fruits, vegetables, and fiber
• Walking regularly
• Reducing your sodium intake
• Getting enough sleep
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol
• Avoiding smoking and vaping
• Staying socially connected

Care moving forward

Primary care is one of the most powerful tools for preventing heart disease and supporting long-term wellness. Regular visits give you and your health care clinician a chance to track your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other health measures, and to spot potential problems early so that together you can create a plan that fits your needs.

For people living with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, ongoing care can help keep things under control.

At DAP Health, your long-term health is a priority. Primary care clinicians offer annual physicals, routine checkups, wellness screenings, preventive care, vaccinations, and chronic disease management.

“We want everyone to be seen, heard, and affirmed. That’s our mission,” says Rezai. That approach also extends to medications.

Taking medication as prescribed is an important part of managing heart health, but it isn’t always easy. You may forget doses, stop taking medication when you feel better, or worry about side effects. Taking blood pressure and cholesterol medications consistently can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

DAP Health’s in-house pharmacies — such as the ones in Coachella, Cathedral City, and Borrego Springs — help patients stay on track with prescription services, home delivery, medication packaging, insurance support, refill reminders, and pharmacist consultations.

Prioritize your heart

Every September 29, World Heart Day shines a spotlight on cardiovascular health. Initiated by the World Heart Federation, this global campaign raises awareness about heart disease and encourages people to reduce their risk. But heart health shouldn’t be a once a year conversation. It deserves attention every day.

Prevention starts with acting before a problem becomes a crisis. It can be one screening, one walk, one healthier meal, or one conversation with your doctor. Small steps may not seem like much, but over time, they can make a meaningful difference.

Take that next step. Schedule a primary care visit. Get your blood pressure checked. Know your numbers. Talk with your pharmacist about your medications. Don’t be shy! Ask questions. Your heart works hard for you every day. Give it the care it deserves.

Here are the numbers you and your health care team should be aware of and keep an eye on:

• Blood pressure
• Blood sugar
• Cholesterol
• Waist circumference
• Weight/BMI

If you’re a current DAP Health patient and want to make sure everything is fine heart-wise, make an appointment with your primary care clinician today.

If you’re not yet a DAP Health patient but want to become one, please click here.