February is Hearth Month: William Osler Health System Shares Tips to Save Your Heart

February 12, 2024 – February is Heart Month, a time to focus on keeping our hearts healthy and preventing heart disease, which affects about 2.4 million Canadian adults and is the second leading cause of death in Canada.

More than 60,000 Canadians experience their first heart attack each year. In honor of Heart Month, Dr. Farrukh Hussain from William Osler Health System shares five essential tips for heart safety and disease prevention:

1. Choose a heart-healthy diet: Opt for Mediterranean or plant-based diets rich in vegetables, berries, nuts, fish, olive oil, whole grains, beans, chickpeas, and lentils. Avoid sugary, refined, and processed foods, as well as saturated fats and fried foods. A balanced diet provides antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber vital for heart health.
2. Quit smoking and vaping: Tobacco chemicals damage the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease. Quitting smoking and vaping reduces this risk, with benefits seen as soon as a day after quitting. Various support systems are available to aid in the quitting process.
3. Know the signs of a heart attack: Recognize symptoms like chest discomfort, upper body discomfort, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and light-headedness. If you experience these signs, call 911 immediately.
4. Know your heart attack risks: Certain household chores, such as shoveling snow or gardening, can increase heart attack risk. Proceed slowly, moderate your activity, and stop immediately if you experience symptoms. Consult your family doctor to assess your heart attack/disease risk if needed.
5. Hands-Only CPR: Learn Hands-Only CPR, which involves chest compressions at a rate of at least 100 times per minute. It can be performed by anyone and has the potential to save lives. Seek CPR training to be prepared for emergencies.

Dr. Farrukh Hussain, MD, FRCPC, the Physician Lead for the Cardiac Cath Labs at William Osler Health System, emphasizes the importance of these tips. He completed his medical training at the University of Toronto and a fellowship in interventional cardiology at Toronto General Hospital.

By following these simple yet crucial steps, individuals can prioritize their heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease, contributing to a healthier community overall.