American Heart Month is a time to spread awareness of the dangers of heart disease and stroke, and recommit to strengthening prevention, improving treatments, and helping all Americans live longer, healthier lives.

Hundreds of thousands of American families are devastated each year by heart disease. Even though the risk factors for heart disease can be prevented or controlled, it is the leading killer of both men and women in the United States.

And yet, heart disease is preventable. By leading a healthy lifestyle, Americans can lower their risk of heart disease by as much as 82 percent. This means following a heart healthy eating plan, getting regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking.

Even if you’re diagnosed with heart disease, there are many steps you can take to extend your years and increase your quality of life. Americans with heart disease should eat a low-fat, low-sodium, nutritious diet, get regular physical activity, take their medication, and talk to their doctor.

This American Heart Month, talk with your doctor about your personal risk for heart disease and the steps to take to lower it. By encouraging all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle, we can reduce the threat of heart disease and become a healthier country.