Heart Health in Our Community

 Protecting Your Heart with Real‑Life Changes

What adults in Latin American and urban neighborhoods should know

Heart disease and stroke affect many families in our neighborhoods, sometimes at younger ages than expected. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors, and they often have no symptoms. You can feel fine while your arteries are slowly narrowing or becoming stiff. The foods we love—fried dishes, salty snacks, sugary drinks, and large portions—combined with stress, lack of sleep, and limited time to exercise can strain the heart over many years. The goal is not to give up your culture, but to find healthier ways to enjoy it and protect your heart at the same time.

Tips for a stronger heart

● Check your blood pressure regularly and know your numbers.

● Ask your doctor how often you need cholesterol and blood sugar tests.

● Limit fried foods and processed meats; choose baked or grilled options more frequently. ● Add more vegetables, fruits, and beans to your plates.

● Walk most days of the week, even if you break it into short sessions.

● Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke; ask for help with quitting if you need it

When to call your doctor or 911

● Chest pain, pressure, squeezing, or discomfort—especially with shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating (call 911).

● Sudden trouble speaking, weakness on one side of your body, or facial drooping (call 911).

● Swelling in your legs, sudden weight gain, or difficulty breathing when lying down.

● Very high or very low blood pressure readings, or readings that concern you.