As February marks Heart Month, medical professionals and public health officials are urging people to take steps to reduce their risk of developing heart disease.

Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios wrote in a monthly column that Americans should take advantage of the month to focus on their heart health. He noted that simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking, can make a huge difference in preventing heart disease.

Fox News reported that there are five simple ways to help prevent heart disease this year. These include eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, quitting smoking, and getting regular checkups.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has also shared tips to lower heart disease risk. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and managing stress.

Finally, CBS New York reported that February is a great time to raise awareness about heart health. The station noted that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and that making lifestyle changes now can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

With Heart Month upon us, medical professionals and public health officials are emphasizing the importance of taking steps to reduce the risk of heart disease. Simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking, can have a significant impact on preventing heart disease.