February marks American Heart Month, a meaningful reminder to pay attention to the organ that keeps every part of the body functioning—your heart. Although heart disease continues to be the number one cause of death in the United States, many of the contributing risks can be reduced or managed with proactive habits and routine screenings. Unfortunately, misleading beliefs about heart health often make it harder for people to take action. Below, we’re breaking down some of the most persistent myths so you can approach your heart health with clarity and confidence.

Myth #1: “I’m too young to worry about heart issues.”

Fact: Heart health is important at every age, not just later in life. Plaque can begin developing in the arteries during childhood, making early awareness and healthy habits crucial. As obesity and Type 2 diabetes become more common among younger adults, focusing on strong heart routines early on can make a significant difference. Regular movement, nutritious eating patterns, and avoiding tobacco use help build a foundation for long-term cardiovascular wellness.

Myth #2: “I’d know if I had high blood pressure.”

Fact: High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” for a reason—it typically presents no warning signs while causing steady harm to blood vessels and organs. Because symptoms rarely appear, the only way to accurately assess your blood pressure is through consistent monitoring. Many pharmacies offer easy-to-use machines, and your healthcare provider can include checks during routine visits.

Myth #3: “Heart disease mainly affects men.”

Fact: Heart disease is the top cause of death for both women and men, but women are more likely to experience symptoms that differ from the widely recognized chest pain signal. Women may notice discomfort in the back, neck, or jaw, unexplained nausea, or shortness of breath. By learning these subtle signs, women can seek medical attention sooner, which can dramatically improve outcomes.

Myth #4: “If heart disease runs in my family, my fate is sealed.”

Fact: Genetics do influence risk, but they don’t dictate your future. Even with a family history of heart issues, your daily choices play a significant role in lowering your risk. Eating a heart-friendly diet, engaging in regular physical activity, keeping stress in check, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking all contribute to meaningful improvements in heart health—regardless of inherited risk.

Myth #5: “After a heart problem, exercise is unsafe.”

Fact: In most situations, carefully guided exercise is an essential part of recovery. Structured programs such as cardiac rehabilitation are designed specifically to help individuals regain strength and rebuild confidence following a heart-related event. Always consult your doctor before returning to activity, but remember that movement is often a critical component of healing.

Preventive Actions You Can Start Today

The American Heart Association reports that as many as 80% of heart disease cases are preventable. Taking a proactive approach now can dramatically reduce your risks over time. Here are practical steps you can implement:

• Schedule routine checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar to stay aware of important health markers.
• Build meals around nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and wholesome fats.
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate movement each week—such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
• If you smoke, seek support to quit. Within just one year of quitting, your heart attack risk can be reduced by half.
• Find supportive ways to manage stress, whether through hobbies, prayer, mindfulness, or simple deep-breathing exercises.

How Insurance Supports Preventive Care

Many insurance plans include a variety of preventive services at no additional charge. These often cover annual wellness visits, screenings for cholesterol and blood pressure, and sometimes even nutrition guidance or smoking cessation programs. Making use of these benefits can help you catch potential concerns early—long before they become more serious health issues.

Final Thoughts

Heart disease is one of the most preventable health conditions we face, but staying informed is key. As we observe American Heart Month, consider taking small but meaningful steps toward better heart health. Schedule that overdue screening, take a moment to understand your risk factors, or commit to one simple lifestyle shift that supports your heart. The choices you make today can have a lasting impact on your wellbeing in the years ahead.