Live to the Beat

Living a legacy of heart health image collage

Legacies aren’t just about the future; they’re about the here and now—the actions that shape how we enjoy life today and the examples, traditions, and memories we leave for others.

Sadly, there’s a legacy of cardiovascular disease in the Black community, with uncontrolled hypertension (HTN)—a “silent killer”—as a leading cause. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Cardiovascular disease is largely preventable. This legacy can be changed.

It’s time to build a legacy of heart health,
one small step at a time.

Get inspired by others.

Living A Legacy of Heart Health | Jerome Bettis

At just 33, NFL Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis experienced the painful loss of his father to a heart attack. Now, as a proud dad with two kids in college, he’s on a mission to prioritize his heart health. In this powerful video, hear how Jerome’s story inspires him to take action for a healthier future.

Watch Video

Be the inspiration.

Do a Pulse Check

The path to heart health is different for everyone. Pulse Check is an interactive roadmap that lets you customize your own small steps for controlling hypertension and preventing cardiovascular disease.

Start Building Your Legacy of Heart Health.

Small steps can improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Get Your Blood Pressure Checked

Knowing and keeping track of your blood pressure numbers can help you catch problems early, before they cause a heart attack or stroke.

Discover the ideal numbers for most adults and why it’s important to know

Cut Back on Sodium

When you eat too much sodium (salt), your body pulls more water into your bloodstream and your blood pressure goes up. Cutting back on sodium a great way to help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range.

Here are some ways to reduce sodium in your diet.

Get Active

Physical activity strengthens your heart so it pumps more blood with less effort, helping lower your blood pressure. Experts suggest 2½ hours of aerobic activity (like brisk walking) each week for the most benefits. Start with what you can and work up to more over time.

Use this tool to build a personalized weekly activity plan.

Identify Your Stressors

Noticing what causes your stress — and acknowledging those feelings — is a good place to start. Then you’re ready to find some stress relievers that work for you.

Here are some tips for managing your stress Here is where you can find mental health services and treatment

Follow Your Doctor’s Advice

Sometimes, heart-healthy changes like getting active and cutting back on sodium just aren’t enough. The decision to take medicine is yours to make with help and support from a health care professional.

Tips for choosing the right doctor for you Find affordable health care coverage Find a local health center if you don’t have insurance