Strength for Caring Reminds Caregivers During Heart Health Month to Take Care of Their Hearts

February is National Heart Health Month.

(PRWEB) February 24, 2007 -- February is National Heart Health Month. Strength for Caring, www.StrengthforCaring.com, is pleased to announce the release of a new comprehensive heart-health resource for family caregivers. Family caregivers are at a greater risk of heart-related conditions due to high amounts of stress, and lifestyle changes.

Heart disease, including congestive heart failure, is the leading cause of death for both men and women over 65 in the United States. More than 5 million Americans live with congestive heart failure, and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), heart disease is the #1 killer of Women.

According to the AHA, more than 79 million Americans have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease. And nearly 16 million people living today have experienced a heart attack, angina pectoris, or both.

The risk of heart disease increases as we age, and is also associated with family history. High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, cigarette smoking, diabetes, and lack of exercise often contribute to heart disease. Stress and caring for someone else can also increase your risk. According to Lynne Perry-Bottinger, M.D., F.A.C.C., “Note too that as the caregiver, you should take care of yourself as well, because caring for a spouse can increase your risk of developing and dying from heart disease.”

This month be sure to take care of your heart. Visit www.StrengthforCaring.com for tips on reducing stress (http://www.strengthforcaring.com/manual/22/reducing-stress.html), having a heart-healthy day, caring for someone with heart disease and more.

Strength for Caring is owned and maintained by Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company, Division of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc., which is solely responsible for its content. It is intended for visitors from the U.S. only.

# # #