February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and the importance of prevention. Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally, with risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, and stress affecting millions of workers. Long hours, sedentary behavior, and unhealthy workplace habits contribute to cardiovascular diseases, making it essential for employers to create heart-healthy work environments.
Proactive heart care, including regular screenings and early detection, is key to preventing serious health issues. Implementing small yet effective changes can make a significant difference in keeping employees healthy, engaged, and productive. Here’s how organizations can take proactive steps to support heart health at work.
1. Encourage Physical Activity
Sitting for long hours increases the risk of obesity, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular diseases. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. As part of the Our Hearts Movement, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) encourages individuals, families, and workplaces to come together to protect their heart health. Participating in workplace fitness programs and group activities can enhance motivation and accountability, leading to long-term heart health benefits.
2. Address Workplace Stress
Excessive workplace stress contributes to hypertension, anxiety, and heart disease. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) emphasizes the importance of managing stress for overall health. Employers can reduce workplace stress by promoting work-life balance, offering mental health resources, and implementing wellness programs like mindfulness sessions. A stress-free environment leads to better engagement and improved heart health.
3. Promote Regular Health Screenings
Many employees may be unaware of underlying heart conditions. Routine health screenings help detect risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol before they become severe. Employers can offer on-site screenings, partner with healthcare providers like MedPhysicals Plus, and encourage annual check-ups. Optimizing blood test results is a proactive step toward improved heart health. Routine health screenings help identify risks early.
4. Follow the ABCS of Heart Health
The Million Hearts® initiative highlights the ABCS of heart health as essential steps for preventing cardiovascular disease. Employers can encourage these guidelines among employees to improve heart health outcomes:
✔ A – Aspirin Use (as directed by a healthcare provider)
✔ B – Blood Pressure Control (monitor and manage hypertension)
✔ C – Cholesterol Management (keep cholesterol at healthy levels)
✔ S – Smoking Cessation (eliminate tobacco use for better heart health)
Source: CDC, ABCS of Heart Health
Take Action for a Healthier Workforce
Investing in employee heart health benefits both employers and employees. A heart-healthy workplace leads to fewer sick days, increased productivity, and a more positive work environment.
At MedPhysicals Plus, we offer specialized blood tests and cardiovascular assessments provide critical insights into heart health, helping employees identify risk factors early and take proactive steps toward prevention. We proudly serve businesses across Alaska with multiple locations for convenient access to workplace health solutions. Find a MedPhysicals Plus location near you.
Your employees are your greatest asset—help them stay heart-healthy for a stronger, more productive workplace.