Heart Health Myths Debunked: What Really Matters This American Heart Month

February marks American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to turn our attention to the organ that keeps everything in motion — the heart. Even though heart disease continues to be the top cause of death in the United States, many of its risks can be reduced or controlled through healthy habits and early screening. Unfortunately, widespread myths often blur the truth about heart health. Below, we unpack some of the most common misconceptions so you can make informed choices for a stronger, healthier future.

Myth #1: “Heart issues don’t affect younger people.”

Fact: Heart health matters at every age. Plaque in the arteries can begin accumulating long before adulthood — sometimes even during childhood. As obesity and Type 2 diabetes become more common in younger populations, prioritizing cardiovascular wellness early on is increasingly important. Regular exercise, balanced eating habits, and staying away from tobacco play a major role in building lifelong heart health.

Myth #2: “High blood pressure always comes with symptoms.”

Fact: High blood pressure has earned the nickname “silent killer” for a reason — it usually causes no noticeable symptoms, even while damaging critical blood vessels and organs. The only way to know where you stand is through consistent monitoring. Many pharmacies provide free blood pressure machines, and your healthcare provider can easily include a check during routine appointments.

Myth #3: “Men are the only ones who need to worry about heart disease.”

Fact: Both men and women face significant risks when it comes to heart disease. What makes the situation more complicated is that women often exhibit different symptoms than the classic chest pain associated with heart attacks. Women may feel discomfort in the back, neck, or jaw, or experience nausea and shortness of breath instead. Knowing these differences can help women get medical attention sooner and improve their chances of recovery.

Myth #4: “My genetics decide my fate.”

Fact: While heredity can influence your risk, it doesn’t determine your future. You have substantial control through daily habits. Choosing nutrient-rich foods, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, staying active, and managing stress all play meaningful roles in improving heart health. Even those with a strong family history can dramatically lower their risk through intentional lifestyle choices.

Myth #5: “If I’ve had a heart issue, I should avoid exercise.”

Fact: In most cases, movement is part of the recovery process — not a threat to it. Healthcare providers often encourage structured exercise, and cardiac rehabilitation programs exist specifically to help patients regain strength safely after a heart-related event. Always consult your doctor before starting or restarting physical activity, but don’t underestimate the power of regular, supervised movement in rebuilding confidence and cardiovascular health.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Heart

The American Heart Association estimates that up to 80% of heart disease is preventable. Small changes truly add up. Consider the following actions to support your long-term heart wellness:

• Schedule routine screenings for blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
• Fill your meals with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and heart-friendly fats.
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.
• If you smoke, take steps to quit — your heart attack risk can drop by half in just one year.
• Use stress‑relief practices such as mindfulness, hobbies, prayer, or relaxation exercises.

How Insurance Supports Prevention

Most insurance providers offer coverage for preventive health services, including yearly wellness visits, cholesterol checks, and blood pressure screenings — often without any added cost to you. Some plans even offer extra tools such as nutrition counseling or smoking cessation programs. Making use of these benefits can help detect potential problems early and support you in building healthier habits.

Final Thoughts

Heart disease is largely preventable, but understanding the facts is the first step. This American Heart Month, consider taking simple actions like reviewing your health numbers, scheduling a routine screening, or adopting one new heart‑friendly habit. These small yet steady steps can create meaningful change and help you protect your heart for years to come.