Every January, many of us make the same promise: This is the year I’ll make healthier choices. But by the time February arrives, those resolutions often feel buried under snowbanks, busy schedules, and the long Wisconsin winter. That’s why February brings an important reminder. American Heart Month encourages us to refocus on our heart health.
Here in Wisconsin, heart health hits close to home. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in our state, and high blood pressure plays a major role. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, and many don’t know it because it usually has no signs or symptoms.
In Green County, an estimated 36% of adults have high blood pressure. That means roughly one in three adults in Green County is living with a condition that often goes unnoticed, but has a big impact on heart health. The good news is that early detection makes a difference. The best way to know your blood pressure numbers is to get them checked. Our department offers at‑home blood pressure monitoring kits for check-out so Green County residents can track their numbers from home. These kits are simple to use and help you spot changes early, before they become dangerous.
Of course, heart health isn’t only about numbers. There are many ways to care for your heart this month, and staying active is a great start. This February, we invite you to take inspiration from an unexpected source: the Winter Olympics. While most of us won’t be landing triple axels or racing down slopes at 70 miles per hour, the spirit of the Olympics is something everyone can tap into. Watching the athletes compete can be a fun reminder to stay active, whether you imagine you’re training for Team USA or a particular sport sparks the motivation to try something new. Sometimes it’s as simple as taking a short walk with a neighbor on one of Green County’s many trails or just around the block. Even small amounts of movement can strengthen your heart, lift your mood, and help you stay healthy through the winter.
What we eat also plays a big role in keeping our hearts healthy, and in small‑town Wisconsin, that can be hard when comfort foods and potlucks are part of everyday life. But heart‑healthy eating doesn’t have to mean giving up the dishes we love. Simple changes like adding a serving of vegetables to your plate, choosing whole‑grain bread at the grocery store, or swapping out a salty snack for something lighter can make a real difference over time. In a community like Green County, where food can bring people together, small, healthy changes can go a long way.
Your heart works hard for you every day. This month, give it a little extra care in return.
If you’d like to check out an at‑home blood pressure kit or learn more about chronic disease and injury prevention programs in our community, reach out to the Green County Public Health Department. We’re here to support you this month and every month.
— Ellie Lombardo is the Public Health Educator for the Green County Public Health Department and can be reached at elombardo@greencountywi.org or 608-328-9509.
