The Pandemic’s Effect On Heart Health

Anational Cleveland Clinic survey finds that as we near the two-year anniversary of the pandemic, Americans are facing ongoing consequences to their health habits that may have a negative effect on their heart health. We recently discussed the survey with Gerald Sotsky, MD, Chair of Cardiac Services for Valley Medical Group and Director of Cardiovascular Services for The Valley Hospital. Valley’s cardiovascular program is an alliance member of Cleveland Clinic Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute.

Gerald Sotsky, MD

Q: What was the survey’s most significant finding? A: According to the survey, the pandemic has taken a toll on Americans’ heart health. Two out of five have experienced at least one heart-related issue since March 2020, with top issues being shortness of breath, dizziness, increased blood pressure and chest pain. Plus, one in four Americans who have tested positive for COVID-19 report that their diagnosis has impacted their cardiac/heart health.

Q: Any explanation for this? A: Seventy-five percent of Americans say that they often or sometimes sit throughout the day. One in five Americans reveals that increased responsibilities at home mean they have less time to maintain an exercise regimen. Lifestyle changes because of the pandemic can lead to factors such as poor diet, weight gain and physical inactivity, which puts people at a risk for heart disease.

Q: What steps can individuals take to reduce their risk for heart disease? A: There are many ways you can reduce your risk for heart disease. First, become familiar with your family history. If you have lost a family member to heart disease, be proactive and get screened for the condition. The survey found that while many Americans are familiar with their family history of heart disease, many are not taking the steps to reduce the risk. Also, know the factors that increase your risk. These include stress, high blood pressure, obesity and smoking and vaping. It is also a good idea to get your blood pressure checked regularly and to follow a hearthealthy diet plan, such as a Mediterranean diet or plant-based diet.

Valley offers a free, comprehensive risk heart health assessment for women and men between the ages of 20 and 79. The assessment includes a medical history; blood pressure screening; heart auscultation to evaluate heart rate, rhythm and presence of murmur; lung auscultation; peripheral vascular pulse assessments; evaluation of lipid profile and blood glucose level; biometrics (BMI, waist measurement, body fat analysis); and American Heart Association Heart and Cardiovascular Risk Score.