by SERGIO B. SEOANE, MD
The heart is more than a vital organ; it’s the steady rhythm that carries us through every moment of our lives. It responds to how we move, what we eat, how we rest, and how we manage stress. Suffice it to say, countless decisions we make every day affect our heart health.
Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of illness in Florida, the United States, and around the world. Here in Polk County, it ranks second only to cancer. Yet despite its prevalence, heart disease remains one of the most preventable conditions. Advances in medicine and screening tools, along with a deeper understanding of healthy lifestyle choices, have given us more power than ever to take a proactive approach to our cardiovascular health.
Nevertheless, the responsibility lies within each of us to take the right actions.
That means paying attention to everything from managing blood pressure and cholesterol to recognizing early warning signs and prioritizing mental well-being.
In this edition of Central Florida Health News, Dr. Alison Young-Tan with the Florida Department of Health-Polk explores some of the key factors that influence cardiovascular wellness.
In our edition feature, KSC Cardiology’s Dr. Kollagunta Sekhar talks about life after a diagnosis of heart failure and how he works with patients to improve their quality of life, whether through medication, lifestyle changes, or the latest medical technology.
Rounding out our heart health coverage, be sure to take our Pop Quiz to learn how stress impacts the heart, then turn to Body, Mind & Spirit where Jennifer Goodson examines the fine line between the symptoms for panic attacks and heart attacks.
Lastly, BayCare Kids Medical Director Dr. Christina Canody discusses the CDC’s newly revised vaccine recommendations.
Thank you for reading Central Florida Health News.