Only 1 out of nearly 2,000 people assessed could claim ideal heart health, according to a recent study published in Circulation. Of 1,933 American adults who participated in a risk evaluation study, only 1 satisfied the American Heart Association’s guidelines for good heart health. The study examined physician examinations, blood test measurements and survey questions to report health status based upon cardiovascular risk factors and lifestyle habits. The following seven criteria were scored; cholesterol, blood pressure, glucose, smoking, physical activity, body mass index and eating habits.
Only 1 person passed all seven measures and less than 10 percent passed at least five criteria. The research concluded that good heart health scores are the exception, rather than the rule and health improvement represents both a tremendous challenge and opportunity.
The annual cost of heart disease in the United States is estimated at $475.3 billion, according to the American Heart Association. Many experts believe heart disease could be nearly completely eliminated with appropriate wellness and prevention.
The study was performed by physicians and researchers from the University of Pittsburgh Cardiovascular Institute and published in Circulation, a medical journal published by the American Heart Association.
About Scott Foster and Wellco
Scott Foster is President of Wellco, based in Michigan. Wellco works with organizations that want to measurably improve health costs and conditions. Wellco specializes in health ROI systems, health risk appraisals, corporate wellness programs, speaking, and consulting. Wellco the developer of the award-winning HealthHammer (TM), the first and only Zero Trend Appraisal (R) system to help companies accurately benchmark and fully achieve flat health costs over time. For more information, visit www.wellcocorp.com or call 248-549-4247.
Permission to Reprint
You may reprint any items from Health Trends Blog in your own print or electronic newsletter. When you do, please include the following paragraph: Reprinted from “HealthTrendsBlog.com,” free, proven corporate wellness ROI strategies and market intelligence. Subscribe and receive a free gift at www.wellcocorp.com. Copyright (c) by Wellco Corporation.