OVIEDO, Fla. – February is American Heart Month, and Central Florida doctors say the national observance reminds us that healthier choices can start with a few simple steps. As the American Heart Association’s Together to End Stroke sponsor, HCA Florida Healthcare notes the Association’s Life’s Essential 8 provides a great checklist with meaningful actions toward better health.
Life’s Essential 8 includes key behaviors and health factors for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health:
- Healthy eating
- Physical activity
- Giving up tobacco
- Healthy sleep
- Managing weight
- Controlling cholesterol
- Managing blood sugar
- Managing blood pressure
“As a family physician who has cared for patients in this community for more than 24 years, I’ve seen how small, realistic changes can truly improve heart health over time,” said Dr. Pinkal Patel, a family medicine physician at Oviedo Medical Center, part of HCA Florida Healthcare. “Life’s Essential 8 helps people focus on simple, achievable habits that fit into everyday life—like moving a little more, sleeping better, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol under control.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control, one out of every five deaths in the U.S. is attributable to heart disease.
“Life’s Essential 8 is designed to give people a practical, achievable roadmap for taking care of their heart,” said Emory Parkins, marketing and communications director for The American Heart Association Orlando. “These steps – like moving your body regularly, getting quality sleep, managing cholesterol, and avoiding tobacco – are small on their own, but together they create a powerful foundation for long‑term health. We want people to feel encouraged, not overwhelmed. Heart‑healthy living doesn’t have to be complicated, and Life’s Essential 8 helps make the path forward clear and doable.”
Dr. Patel said in addition to setting realistic goals, one of the most impactful steps you can take is to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician each year.
“When patients feel supported and take things one step at a time, those changes can add up to a healthier heart and a healthier community,” said Dr. Patel. “Please reach out to your primary care provider to see how they can help you live and longer and healthier life.”
If you don’t have a primary care physician, contact HCA Florida Healthcare at 855-790-3627 (DOCS) for help finding a doctor near you.
Provided by HCA Florida Healthcare
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