Figure Skater Peggy Fleming Teams with HealthSaver: Heart Heal...( NORWALK Conn. Oct. 25 /- Cardiova...),Health

NORWALK, Conn., Oct. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Cardiovascular disease accounts for 40 percent of all deaths in the United States, more than all forms of cancer combined. The best way to avoid cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease -- the leading cause of death in America -- is to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly and avoid smoking.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071025/NYTHFNS3 )

"The higher your blood pressure, the higher your risk of heart disease," said Peggy Fleming, Olympic figure skating champion and HealthSaver spokesperson.

A healthy diet will keep high blood pressure at bay and help prevent a life-threatening stroke. Smoking raises the risk of many such heart conditions, but breaking the habit can lead you back to health.

"Schedule regular check-ups with your physician to discuss personal risk factors and identify complications that may cause heart problems," said Brad Eggleston, vice president of HealthSaver.

Take control of your health to help sustain a healthy heart now and for years to come.

Lower Blood Pressure

-- High blood pressure increases the force of blood flowing through your

arteries, leaving artery walls damaged. Your heart then must work

harder to pump the oxygen and nutrients your body requires, leaving

you more susceptible to heart attacks, strokes and congestive heart

failure. While the risk of high blood pressure increases with age and

a family history of the disease, you do have control over your weight

and dietary salt intake, two other major risk factors.

-- The fatty tissue gained with excess weight also requires oxygen and

nutrients, causing an increase in blood pressure that can lead to a

two to three times higher risk of heart failure. Decrease your risk by

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