February marks American Heart Month, making it a perfect time to focus on the organ that fuels every part of your life. Heart disease continues to be the number one cause of death in the United States, but many of its risks can be lowered or managed through healthy habits and early detection. Unfortunately, long-standing myths often get in the way of taking better care of your heart. Below, we break down some of the most common misconceptions so you can take meaningful steps toward better heart health.

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

Fact: Heart health matters at every age. Plaque can begin forming in the arteries surprisingly early — even during childhood. With increasing rates of obesity and Type 2 diabetes among young adults, building healthy routines from an early age is more important than ever. Staying active, eating well, and avoiding tobacco can set you up for long-term cardiovascular wellness.

Myth #2: “I would feel it if my blood pressure were high.”

Fact: High blood pressure earned the nickname “silent killer” for a reason. Many people don’t notice any symptoms while their arteries and organs quietly sustain damage. The only dependable way to know your numbers is through regular checks. Many pharmacies offer free self-serve monitors, or you can ask your healthcare provider to include a reading during routine appointments.

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

Fact: Heart disease is the top cause of death for both men and women. But women often experience different warning signs than the classic chest pain. Symptoms like nausea, shortness of breath, or discomfort in the jaw, back, or neck may signal trouble. Recognizing these subtler symptoms helps women seek care earlier, which can improve outcomes.

Myth #4: “If heart disease runs in my family, I can’t change my risk.”

Fact: Your family history does play a role, but it doesn’t determine your future. Lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk. Eating nutrient-rich foods, maintaining a healthy weight, steering clear of tobacco, and learning to manage stress all support better heart health — no matter your genetics.

Myth #5: “After a heart event, I should avoid physical activity.”

Fact: In many cases, carefully supervised exercise is an important part of recovery. Cardiac rehabilitation programs are built specifically to help people safely regain strength and confidence after a heart-related incident. Always follow your doctor’s guidance before beginning any exercise plan, but don’t underestimate how beneficial movement can be during recovery.

Simple Steps to Protect Your Heart

The American Heart Association reports that up to 80% of heart disease cases are preventable. Here are some practical steps to help safeguard your health:

• Get routine screenings for blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
• Focus on a balanced diet filled with whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and heart-healthy fats.
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
• Quit smoking — your heart attack risk can drop by half within 12 months.
• Use stress-relief practices such as mindfulness, hobbies, prayer, or calming activities.

How Insurance Supports Preventive Care

Most insurance plans offer preventive services like annual checkups, cholesterol panels, and blood pressure screenings at no extra cost. Some plans even provide additional support, such as smoking cessation programs or nutrition guidance. Making use of these benefits can help spot potential concerns early, before they turn into more serious conditions.

Final Thoughts

While heart disease is common, much of it can be prevented — and awareness is the first step. This American Heart Month, make time to review your numbers, book necessary screenings, and choose one healthy habit to prioritize. Consistent, small actions today can add up to a stronger heart and a healthier future.