Heart Disease Deaths See Decline, Experts Share Strategies for Risk Reduction

Daily Health

23/01/2026

In a positive development for public health, deaths attributed to heart disease and strokes have seen a notable decline in the United States. The American Heart Association's latest report indicates approximately 25,000 fewer deaths in 2023 compared to the previous year, reversing a trend observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Takeaways

Deaths from cardiovascular disease and strokes decreased by roughly 25,000 in 2023 compared to 2022.
High blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes are significant modifiable risk factors for heart disease.
Lifestyle changes and accessible medical treatments can effectively manage these conditions.
Community-level initiatives and individual habit adjustments are crucial for sustained progress.

Understanding the Decline and Future Momentum

While the recent decrease in heart disease fatalities is encouraging, experts emphasize the need to maintain this positive momentum. Dr. Stacey Rosen, president of the American Heart Association, noted that the pandemic years were an anomaly and that a sustained preventive strategy is essential. This strategy must involve both the healthcare system and individual responsibility, focusing on conditions that predispose individuals to heart disease.

Addressing Modifiable Risk Factors

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is identified as a critical and highly modifiable risk factor, affecting nearly half of all Americans. Many individuals are unaware they have hypertension due to a lack of specific symptoms, underscoring the importance of regular check-ups. Dr. Sadiya Khan of Northwestern University highlighted that treating high blood pressure with medication and lifestyle changes can significantly prevent heart disease, stroke, and even dementia, with numerous inexpensive therapies now available.

Obesity and diabetes are also major contributors to heart disease. Management of these conditions involves a combination of medication and lifestyle adjustments, including improved diet and increased physical activity. Khan also pointed to the importance of community-level policy changes, such as the creation of safe green spaces that encourage exercise.

Policy and Individual Action

Public health experts propose various policy changes to foster healthier communities. These include reducing sodium in the food supply, expanding diabetes prevention programs, and offering financial incentives for cardiovascular risk factor reduction. Dr. Anand Parekh of the University of Michigan noted that while individual policy changes are not feasible for everyone, there are numerous opportunities to adjust daily habits.

The American Heart Association promotes "Life's Essential 8," a framework encompassing diet, physical activity, sleep, tobacco cessation, and the management of blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight. Dr. Rosen stressed the significant impact of adhering to these guidelines in reducing heart disease risk.

Embracing Small, Sustainable Changes

Making significant habit changes can feel daunting. Rosen advises setting small, specific goals, such as taking the stairs twice daily or avoiding bread baskets at meals, rather than broad resolutions like "lose weight." Celebrating these small victories can serve as an effective on-ramp to adopting healthier habits. Rosen shared her personal experience of prioritizing sleep, which she found made a significant difference in her well-being and heart health.

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