Heart disease is the #1 cause of death in Mississippi. You can prevent heart disease and stroke by simply getting active, eating smart, and getting regular checkups.
Mississippi is one of the top states in the nation for heart attack and stroke deaths. Obesity, smoking, diet and inactivity bring heart disease to Mississippians early in life, and cuts their lives short. 8,000 Mississippians a year die from heart disease.
What You Can Do
Whether you're young or old, taking simple steps now can lower your risk of heart disease — and reduce your risk of cancer and diabetes at the same time.
- Quit smoking: Quitting tobacco is the best first step in improving your heart health. It's easier with free help from the Mississippi Tobacco Quitline. Free help quitting
- Move more: It's the free way to stay healthier and feel younger. Get a few minutes of brisk physical activity whenever you can, or take thirty minutes a day for a walk or other enjoyable way to move. Ways to get moving
- Eat smart: Vegetables and fruits rather than meats and sweets can make a profound change in your health. Choosing the right foods isn't hard. Steps to smart eating
- See your doctor regularly: A yearly checkup can detect problems before they become serious. Men especially need checkups
- Know your numbers: Get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly, and work to get them to healthy levels. The four numbers you should know