As the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) spreads awareness of cardiovascular health during American Heart Month, their Office of Adult Health is also stressing the connection between heart health and tobacco products.
According to MSDH, smoking in any amount contributes to heart disease. Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, is the No. 1 cause of death in Mississippi, accounting for over a third of all deaths in the state, and is among the highest in the nation. Heart disease is the top killer of women in the United States. Smoking is a known risk factor for the disease.
“We know that smoking is not good for your health,” Darrius Moore, Community Programs Director, said. “We want to arm you with facts and provide you with the free support you deserve. Anyone can go to their local county health department to have their blood pressure checked. At the same time, we can help you stop smoking by connecting you to our Quitline.”
The Office of Adult Health encourages all Mississippians to engage in heart-healthy behavior. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, controlling your blood pressure, and quitting smoking will lower your risk of heart disease.
“Our agency offers many ways to support you in your health journey,” Moore said. “We understand the importance of meeting folks where they are. Look for us in your community. We’re here for you.”
For more information, visit www.healthyms.com/tobacco. For help quitting, visit www.quitlinems.com or call the Mississippi Tobacco Quitline at (800) QUIT-NOW.
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You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 30 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
