February is American Heart Month and with its arrival it’s time to focus on our hearts in more ways than one. With heart disease being a leading cause of death in the United States, credited for 1 in 4 deaths each year, it is important we all take the necessary steps to lower our risk and live a heart healthy life. With small lifestyle changes, raising awareness, donating, and volunteering, we can all do our part in taking care of our hearts and looking out for others.

By the Numbers

According to the CDC, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for both and women, as well as most racial and ethnic groups. Even more alarming, it claims a life every 36 seconds in the United States, meaning about 655,000 people die each year from what is considered by most health experts a largely preventable disease. Almost 50% of the adults in the United States live with cardiovascular disease, and without increasing education and awareness on the matter, that number will likely grow.

Taking Action

While it may seem overwhelming, the truth is, small lifestyle changes can make all the difference in preventing heart disease. Here are some adjustments you can make today that will put you on the path to a heart healthy lifestyle.

• Exercise More – 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week is all you need, but even if you’re short on time, any exercise is better than no exercise at all. If you’re bored of routine exercises, mix it up by taking a dance class, playing a sport, or opting for a staircase instead of an elevator. You’ll feel great and your body will thank you for it.
• Eat Healthier Foods – Choose healthier food options that are low in fat and sodium. Try to also avoid sugary drinks and snacks, and incorporate more vegetables, fruit, and whole grains into your diet.
• Learn Your Family’s History – Know your family’s medical history and see if you’re prone to heart disease and other ailments.
• Adopt a Stress-Free Lifestyle – Learn some stress management techniques (Try Yoga!) and place a greater importance on making sure you get enough sleep each night.
• Take the Extra Steps – Get routine wellness exams so your doctor can identify any issues before it’s too late. Keep excess weight off to lower your risk for chronic medical conditions. Quit smoking to help protect your heart and blood vessels.

Raising Awareness

You can help bring awareness to this preventable disease by participating in National Wear Red Day on February 5^th. Talking to friends and family (and even strangers) about lowering their risk can also go a long way in combatting heart disease. Educating others on the signs, symptoms, and preventative measures they can take could be the difference between life and death and it may end up saving someone they love.

Donate & Volunteer

By donating to the American Heart Association, you can help fund the research that goes into helping diagnose, treat, and prevent heart disease. You can also volunteer and become an advocate for a heart healthy lifestyle in your community. You might even be considered a hero!

Stock up on Red

Stock up on red scrubs so you’ll be ready for both National Wear Red Day and Valentine’s Day! We’ve got a large selection to choose from and they’re easy to find with shop by color, so you’re sure to find a style you love. Here’s a look to give you some inspiration!

Equipped with two front double pockets and pen slots, this fashion-forward Keyhole Neck Top from Butter-Soft will elevate your scrub style. Made of a brushed 65/35 poly combed/cotton blend, you’ll look and feel good in this top.

Add even more style (and storage) to your look with these front crossover waist scrub pants that will bring superior softness and comfort to the longest of shifts.

Bring it altogether and stay warm during your shift with this Ladies Warm-Up Jacket from Butter-Soft with all the details and features to support you no matter what your work day brings.

Don’t forget to show us your new outfit by tagging us on Instagram @UniformAdvantage and use #adayinredscrubs!