Do you know your numbers?

Start by Knowing Your Numbers

You can’t manage what you don’t measure, which is why knowing your risk is critical to preventing cardiovascular disease. And, knowing your risk starts with knowing your numbers.

The American Heart Association recommends that you be aware of five key numbers: Total Cholesterol, HDL (good) Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, and Body Mass Index (BMI). These numbers are important because they will allow you and your healthcare provider to determine your risk for developing Cardiovascular Disease by Atherosclerosis. This includes conditions such as Angina (chest pain), Heart Attack, Stroke (caused by Blood Clots) and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).

The ideal numbers for most adults are:

• Blood pressure: less than 120/80 mm Hg
• Body Mass Index (BMI): 18.5-24.9 kg/m2
• Fasting Blood Sugar: less than 100 mg/dL
• Total Cholesterol/HDL (good): Desirable range is 60 mg/dL or greater.

Get your cholesterol checked. Talk to your doctor about your numbers and how they impact your HDL cholesterol and overall risk.