FORT LEE, Va.  –   Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the U.S. and many who die suddenly had no previous symptoms. This past year with pandemic, it has played a huge impact for many to visit their provider and receive a regular check-up. As we have recognize Men’s Health Month in June, it is a perfect time for men of all ages to focus on one’s overall health and learn about heart disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention, heart disease is a serious medical condition and 1 out of 4 deaths are due to this ailment. About 670,000 Americans die from heart disease each year.
The term “heart disease” refers to several types of heart conditions. The most common type in the U.S. is coronary artery disease, which can affect the blood flow to the heart. When one has decreased blood flow to the heart, which can cause a heart attack.

Many have heart disease and do not even know it until they have been diagnosed or have experienced signs or symptoms of a heart attack, heart failure, or an arrhythmia (an irregular heart rhythm).

The key risk factors come from several health conditions; lifestyle, one’s age and family history. In the U.S. half of the public have at least 1 of 3 key factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, smoking, high blood cholesterol. Other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can increase a higher risk of getting heart disease, including unhealthy diet, obesity, and physical inactivity.

Risks for heart disease

• Diabetes
• Overweigh and obesity
• Unhealthy diet
• Physical inactivity
• Excessive alcohol use

When visiting Primary Care Manager, discuss the risk factors with your provider and learn which ones can be modified. There are some ways to stay on top of your own health. Effective treatment for high blood pressure and high cholesterol can effectively reduce risk for future heart disease.

Know your cholesterol numbers. High cholesterol contributes to a build-up of plaque along the walls of arteries that can interfere with blood supply to the heart. This condition can lead to reduced blood flow, which could put you at risk. 

Know your numbers for “good” and “bad” cholesterol and know what you can do to manage blood pressure, blood sugar and weight.

Check blood sugar with an A1C test at least annually. Diabetic complications can seriously impact health and lead to heart complications.

Monitor your weight. Take advantage of KAHC resources by utilizing the free services at Army Wellness Center and the two dietitians-- no referral is needed to make an appointment.

Quit smoking.

Take control of your heart health. With a few changes to everyday activities one can lower the risk for heart disease and heart attack by doing health living habits. Talk to your primary care manager by making an appointment today; scheduling an appointment with Kenner is quick and easy.

Patients have the option of scheduling appointments in one of two ways. TRICARE Online Patient Portal, available 365/24/7 at www.tricareonline.com for self-service and is a convenient and easy way to book an appointment.
​Beneficiaries also can call the Patient Appointment Line at 1-866-LEE-KAHC (533-5242) from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.