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. Almost 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 they're the same steps that reduce your risk of cancer and diabetes as well.
- Move more: Get a few minutes of brisk physical activity whenever you can, or dedicate half an hour a day to 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 »
- 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 »
- See your doctor regularly: A yearly checkup can detect problems before they become serious. Men especially need checkups »
