The American Heart Association (AHA) has compiled a list of seven measures to serve as the framework for ideal cardiovascular health (Circulation. 2010;121:586-613). These optimal health behaviors are:

  • Not smoking or having quit more than one year ago
  • Maintaining BMI <25
  • Being physically active for at least 150 minutes at moderate intensity or 75 minutes at vigorous intensity each week
  • Observing four to five of the key components of a healthful diet consistent with current AHA guideline recommendations
  • Total cholesterol <200 mg/dL
  • BP <120/80 mmHg
  • Fasting blood glucose <100 mg/dL

The AHA has also developed My Life Check, a short assessment instrument that shows where a person is on the cardiovascular-health spectrum.

From the April 01, 2010 Issue of Clinical Advisor

Topics:

Cardiovascular Disease Diabetes Diet and Exercise Dyslipidemia Hypertension Smoking