Summer is finally here and with Men’s Health Month just passing, it’s the perfect time to have real conversations with the special guys in your life about their heart health, including what they should know about chronic heart failure.
About 5.7 million adults in the United States have heart failure. One in nine deaths in 2009 included heart failure (HF) as a contributing cause. About half of people who develop heart failure die within 5 years of diagnosis. Heart failure costs the nation an estimated $30.7 billion each year.
Nearly 50% of all HF cases are characterized as a certain type of long-lasting HF, where the heart is unable to pump blood around the body efficiently. Data indicate that more men than women suffer from this form of HF, and men may also experience worse outcomes, including a higher rate of first HF hospitalization as well as the risk of cardiovascular death. One of the main victim groups of this epidemic is Black men.
“Ultimately, the risk factors tell the story here,” said Dr. Andrew Darlington, D.O., a cardiologist specializing in advanced HF from Atlanta, GA. “Diabetes, high cholesterol, and mostly sedentary lifestyles prompt chronic heart failure and essentially, that cluster of things make heart failure more susceptible in men of color.”
Dr. Darlington says that the summer makes it particularly more likely for heart failure to occur in Black men.
“Sodium rich foods, hotter weather, and more physical activity than usual make heart failure more likely,” he shared.
He also shared the warning signs we should look out for that signify heart failure.
“Shortness of breath and water retention, such as a swollen body are the tell-tale signs of heart failure,” he said. “If you see these signs, call a doctor ASAP.”
But, Dr. Darlington said there are ways to eradicate the disease.
“Heart failure can be easily avoided with regular sodium restriction and maintaining a healthy body weight with consistent physical activity,” he said. “If you’re already experiencing heart failure, consulting your physician for prescription treatments like Entresto is a smart option as well.
Dr. Darrington says that the medication is much different than others since it contains two active ingredients that work in different ways. The first ingredient, valsartan, has been used for years to treat HF. The second ingredient, sacubitril, works unlike any other HF treatment and can only be found in Entresto.
“With a few small changes, we can all enjoy a happy and healthy summer.”
For more information on ways to treat and prevent heart failure, visit Entresto.com.
Jasmine Browley holds an MA in journalism from Columbia College Chicago, and has contributed to Ebony, Jet and MADE Magazine among others. So, clearly, she knows some stuff. Follow her digital journey @JasmineBrowley.
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