Adopting a few simple lifestyle habits can increase your life-expectancy with a healthy heart
Among women, the symptoms of heart disease are often ignored while their risk factors (hypertension, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, and excess body weight) are overlooked. During Heart Health Month in February, McGill University researchers are showing women how they can benefit from healthy lifestyle changes as much as men.
In fact, whether you are male or female, did you know that you can add over 10 healthy years to your life? Regardless of whether you currently smoke, carry extra weight, exercise rarely, or have elevated blood pressure, cholesterol or blood sugar, simple changes including regular exercise, healthy eating, losing a few excess pounds, and regularly taking your prescribed medication for blood pressure or high cholesterol, can help you live a longer, healthier life.
Canadians can calculate the benefits of lowering their Cardiovascular Age using a simple, secure, on-line calculator funded by grants from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. The scientifically validated cardio-metabolic health calculator is available to all Canadians via the www.MissionVAV.com website.
Across the country, Canadian Veterans, their families and supporters, as well as members of the Royal Canadian Legion, can also take part in the six-week Heart Health Mission. This on-line program has been proven to lower an individual’s risk of developing heart disease and diabetes, through exercise, healthy eating, and weight management. Designed by health professionals and researchers at the McGill Comprehensive Health Improvement Program (CHIP) and funded by Veterans Affairs Canada, the MissionVAV program has provided three online health challenges since October 2019.
This web-based, digital tracking program was previously developed and tested among McGill University Health Centre employees and active service members of the Canadian Armed Forces. Published studies to date have shown that participants exercise more, lose weight, and lower their risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. They also sleep better and improve their mental health measures.
To schedule an interview or for more information about the Program or the Cardiovascular Age calculator please contact:
Dr. Steven Grover, Director of the McGill Comprehensive Health Improvement Program, and
Professor of Medicine, McGill University
Tel.: 514-791-5688
Emai: Steven.grover@mcgill.ca
February 12, 2020